US 20080307608A1

(19) United States

(12) Patent Application Publication (10) Pub. No.: US 2008/0307608 A1
Goto (43) Pub. Date: Dec. 18, 2008
(54) BLAXIAL HINGE DEVICE (30) Foreign Application Priority Data
(75) Inventor: Katsumi Goto, Chiba (JP) Jan. 21, 2004 (JP) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2004-0129.08

Publication Classification
Correspondence Address: (51) Int. Cl.
OSHALIANGL.L.P. E05D3/6 (2006.01)
EY HoustoNCENTER 99 FANNIN SUITE (so
HOUSTON, TX 77010 (US) (57)
us.c.
ABSTRACT
16/366
First and second hinge members 23A, 23B are turnably dis
(73) Assignee: SUGATSUNE KOGYO CO., posed at an end part on an internal opening side of an outer
LTD., Tokyo (JP) case 11. The first and second hinge members 23A, 23B are
non-turnably provided with first and second gears 24A, 24B,
21) Appl. No.: 10/S85.911 respectively, which are meshed with each other. A movable
(21) Appl. No 9 member 25 is disposed at the inside of the outer case 11 such
that the movable member 25 is non-turnable but movable in
(22) PCT Filed: Jan. 19, 2005 directions toward and away from the first and second hinge
members 23A, 23B. First biasing means for turn biasing the
(86). PCT No.: PCT/UP2005/000577 first hinge member 3A in one direction are disposed between
the first hinge member 23A and the movable member 25 and
S371 (c)(1), between the second hinge member 23B and the movable
(2), (4) Date: Sep. 2, 2008 member 25 respectively.

3a

al
3C
Patent Application Publication Dec. 18, 2008 Sheet 1 of 12 US 2008/0307608A1

EG - 1
Patent Application Publication Dec. 18, 2008 Sheet 2 of 12 US 2008/0307608A1

EG 3

EG - 4
Patent Application Publication Dec. 18, 2008 Sheet 3 of 12 US 2008/0307608A1

EG - 5
Patent Application Publication Dec. 18, 2008 Sheet 4 of 12 US 2008/0307608A1
Patent Application Publication Dec. 18, 2008 Sheet 5 of 12 US 2008/0307608A1

H.G. 8
23B 21 10
23C 21 d

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23b 1a

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Z(ZAKSSNL
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N 12 Y&S2
N-H222 N W.
Z. Y
Patent Application Publication Dec. 18, 2008 Sheet 6 of 12 US 2008/0307608A1

G. LO
ag
a

R
Patent Application Publication Dec. 18, 2008 Sheet 7 of 12 US 2008/0307608A1

EG - 1
Patent Application Publication Dec. 18, 2008 Sheet 8 of 12 US 2008/0307608A1

EG - 13

23b
24B

FG 15
Patent Application Publication Dec. 18, 2008 Sheet 9 of 12 US 2008/0307608A1

G. 6

90
EG - 17 280 28B N

90
Patent Application Publication Dec. 18, 2008 Sheet 10 of 12 US 2008/0307608A1

EG - 19
Patent Application Publication Dec. 18, 2008 Sheet 11 of 12 US 2008/0307608A1

EG - 2 O

40
27A (27B)
28A (28B)
28a (28b) | 29A (29B)

EG - 2
80 (90)
27A (27B)

29A (29B)

23a-N
Patent Application Publication Dec. 18, 2008 Sheet 12 of 12 US 2008/0307608A1

F.G. 22 CA)

an-N N N NN NNNNNNNNNNNNNNN

EG - 22 CB) 60
27A (27B)
28G (28H) 28g (28h)
f37N, 4. u-1 3

as N
50
27A (27B)
EG - 23
28C (28D)
28c (28d)

2
US 2008/0307608 A1 Dec. 18, 2008

BAXAL HINGE DEVICE and turnably Supported by the hinge main body, a first gear
non-turnably disposed at the first hinge shaft and a second
TECHNICAL FIELD gear non-turnably disposed at the second hinge shaft and
0001. This invention relates to a biaxial hinge device meshed with the first gear, first turn biasing means adapted to
Suited to be used for a portable equipment such as a portable turn bias the first hinge shaft in one direction when the first
telephone set and a notebook type personal computer. hinge shaft is located in a predetermined first position being
disposed at least at one of between the hinge main body and
BACKGROUND ART the first hinge shaft and between the hinge main body and the
0002 Recently, in the portable telephone set, a biaxial second hinge shaft.
hinge device having two hinge shafts arranged parallel to 0006. It is preferable that second turn biasing means
each other came to be used as a hinge device for turnably adapted to turn bias the first hinge shaft in the other direction
connecting a transmission section and a reception section to when the first hinge shaft is located in a predetermined second
each other. The reason is that in the hinge device having only position away from the first position in a peripheral direction
one hinge shaft, the turning range between the transmission is disposed at least at one of between the hinge main body and
section and the reception section is limited to 160 degrees to the first hinge shaft and between the hinge main body and the
170 degrees, while in the biaxial hinge device, the turning second hinge shaft.
range between the transmission section and the reception 0007. It is also preferable that first turn restricting means
section can be increased to 360 degrees. adapted to restrict turn of the first hinge shaft with respect to
0003. As a biaxial hinge device used in a portable tele the hinge main body with a predetermined force when the first
phone set, a device is known which is disclosed in the under hinge shaft is located in a predetermined restriction range
listed Patent Document 1. In this hinge device, a pair of first between the first position and the second position is disposed
hinge shafts are formed on both sides of one end part adjacent between the hinge main body and the first hinge shaft, and
to the reception section of the transmission section, and a first second turn biasing means adapted to restrict turn of the
gear part is formed between the pair of first hinge shafts. A second hinge shaft with respect to the hinge main body with
pair of second hinge shafts are formed on both sides of one a predetermined force when the first hinge shaft is located in
end part adjacent to the transmission section of the reception
section, and a second gear part is formed between the pair of the restriction range is disposed between the hinge main body
second hinge shafts. A set of first and second hinge shafts and the second hinge shaft.
arranged on the same side of the transmission section and 0008. It is also preferable that third turn biasing means
reception section are turnably connected respectively to one adapted to turnbias the first hinge shaft either in the one or the
and the other end parts of a connecting member, and the other other direction when the first hinge shaft is located in a pre
set of first and second hinge shafts arranged on the other side determined intermediate position between the first position
are turnably connected respectively to one and the other end and the second position is disposed at one of between the
parts of another connecting member. Owing to this arrange hinge main body and the first hinge shaft and between the
ment, the transmission section and the reception section are hinge main body and the second hinge shaft, and turn prohib
turnably connected to each other through the connecting iting means adapted to prohibit the first hinge shaft from
members. In a state where the transmission section and the being turned by a turn biasing force of the third turn biasing
reception section are turnably connected to each other, the means with a predetermined prohibiting force when the first
first and second gear parts are meshed with each other. Owing hinge shaft is located in the intermediate position is disposed
to this arrangement, the reception section is prohibited from at the other.
freely turning about the first and second hinge shafts and the
reception section is turned relative to the transmission section 0009. It is also preferable that first turn restricting means
Such that the reception section normally draws a constant adapted to restrict turn of the first hinge shaft with respect to
locus. the hinge main body with a predetermined force when the first
Patent Document 1: U.S. Pat. No. 5,363,089 hinge shaft is located in a predetermined first restriction range
between the first position and the intermediate position and
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION when the first hinge shaft is located in a predetermined second
Problem to be Solved by the Invention restriction range between the intermediate position and the
second position is disposed at least at one of between the
0004. In the conventional biaxial hinge device, in order to hinge main body and the first hinge shaft and between the
Smoothly rotate the first and second gears, an unavoidable hinge main body and the second hinge shaft, and second turn
backlash is arranged between flanks of the first and second restricting means adapted to restrict turn of the second hinge
gears. Due to this arrangement, in case the conventional shaft with respect to the hinge main body with a predeter
biaxial hinge device is used in a portable telephone set, rattle mined force when the first hinge shaft is located in the first
attributable to the backlash tends to occur between the trans and second restriction ranges is disposed between the hinge
mission section and the reception section. main body and the second hinge shaft.
Means for Solving the Problem 0010. It is also preferable that the first hinge shaft is pro
vided at one end part thereof with a first attachment part, and
0005 According to the present invention, there is pro the second hinge shaft is provided at one end part thereof with
vided, in order to solve the above-mentioned problem, a a second attachment part. In the foregoing arrangement, it is
biaxial hinge device comprising a hinge main body, a first preferable that the hinge main body is provided at a part
hinge shaft turnably supported by the hinge main body, a thereof located on the same axis as the first hinge shaft with a
second hinge shaft arranged parallel to the first hinge shaft third attachment part, and the hinge main body is provided at
US 2008/0307608 A1 Dec. 18, 2008

a part thereof located on the same axis as the second hinge 0023 FIG. 12 is a view showing a state of the first and
shaft with a fourth attachment part. second gears and the outer case of the biaxial hinge device
when the reception section of the above portable telephone set
EFFECT OF THE INVENTION is turned 90 degrees from the folding position.
0024 FIG. 13 is a view showing a state of the first and
0011. In case a biaxial hinge device having the above second gears and the outer case of the biaxial hinge device
mentioned structural features is used, for example, in a por when the reception section of the above portable telephone set
table telephone set, the first hinge shaft is non-turnably con is turned 180 degrees from the folding position.
nected to one of the transmission section and the reception 0025 FIG. 14 is a view showing a state of the first and
section, and the second hinge shaft is non-turnably connected second gears and the outer case of the biaxial hinge device
to the other. Owing to this arrangement, the transmission when the reception section of the above portable telephone set
section and the reception section can turnably be connected to is turned 270 degrees from the folding position.
each other through the biaxial hinge device. Presume that the 0026 FIG. 15 is a view of the first and second gears and the
transmission section is positionally fixed and the reception outer case when the reception section of the above portable
section is turned with respect to the transmission section. It is telephone set is turned to the reverse folding position.
further presumed that when the first hinge shaft is located in 0027 FIG. 16 is a view showing a relation between the
the first position, the reception section is located in a folding first and second hinge members and first and second gears and
position and the reception section is turn biased from a talking two spherical bodies when the reception section of the above
position to the folding position by the first turn biasing means portable telephone set is located in the folding position.
through the first hinge shaft. Under that condition, a gear 0028 FIG. 17 is a view showing a relation between the
Surface of the first gear is press contacted with a gear Surface first and second hinge members and first and second gears and
of the second gear non-turnably connected to the transmis the two spherical bodies when the reception section of the
sion section by the first turn biasing means. Accordingly, the above portable telephone set is turned 90 degrees from the
first and second gears are not rattled. Thus, rattle can be folding position.
prevented from occurring between the transmission section 0029 FIG. 18 is a view showing a relation of the first and
and the reception section. second hinge members and first and second gears and the two
spherical bodies when the reception section of the above
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS portable telephone set is turned 180 degrees from the folding
position.
0012 FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a portable telephone 0030 FIG. 19 is a view showing a relation between the
set using a biaxial hinge device according to the present first and second hinge members and first and second gears and
invention, in which a reception section is turned to the folding the two spherical bodies when the reception section of the
position. above portable telephone set is turned to the reverse folding
0013 FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the above portable position.
telephone set, in which the reception section is turned 90 0031 FIG. 20 is an enlarged sectional view taken on line
degrees in the opening direction from the folding position. X-X of FIG. 16.
0014 FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the above portable 0032 FIG. 21 is an enlarged sectional view taken on line
telephone set, in which the reception section is turned 180 X-X of FIG. 17.
degrees in the opening direction from the folding position. 0033 FIG. 22(A) of FIG.22 is an enlarged sectional view
0015 FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the above portable taken on line X-X of FIG. 18 and FIG. 22(B) is an enlarged
telephone set, in which the reception section is turned 360 sectional view taken on line Y-Y of FIG. 18.
degrees in the reverse direction from the folding position and 0034 FIG. 23 is an enlarged sectional view taken on line
reaches a reverse folding position. X-X of FIG. 19.
0016 FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the above DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE NUMERAL
portable telephone set.
0017 FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing an essential 0035) 10... biaxial hinge device
structural part of a biaxial hinge device according to the 0.036 11... outer case (hinge main body)
present invention for turnably connecting the transmission 0037 11a. . . fitting cylindrical part (third attachment
section and the reception section of the above portable tele part)
phone set to each other. 0.038) 11b. . . fitting cylindrical part (fourth attachment
part)
0018 FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the above essential 0039. 21... inner case (hinge main body)
structural part but when viewed in a different direction from 0040 23A... first hinge member (first hinge shaft)
that of FIG. 6.
0041) 23B . . . second hinge member (second hinge
0019 FIG. 8 is a sectional view of a biaxial hinge device shaft)
according to the present invention taken on line X-X of FIG. 0.042 23b . . . shaft part (first attachment part, second
6. attachment part)
0020 FIG.9 is a sectional view taken on line X-X of FIG. 0.043 24A. . . first gear
8. 0044 24B . . . second gear
0021 FIG.10 is an exploded perspective view of the above 0.045 40 . . . first turn biasing means
biaxial hinge device. 0046 50 . . . second turn biasing means
0022 FIG. 11 is a view showing a state of the first and 0047 60 . . . third turn biasing means
second gears and the outer case of the biaxial hinge device 0.048 70. . . turn prohibiting means
when the reception section of the portable telephone set 0049 80 . . . first turn restricting means
shown in FIGS. 1 through 4 is located in the folding position. 0050 90 ... second turn restricting means
US 2008/0307608 A1 Dec. 18, 2008

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE degrees between a folding position (first position) shown in
INVENTION FIG. 1 where their front surfaces are abutted with each other
0051. The best mode for carrying out the present invention and a reverse folding position (second position) where their
will be described hereinafter with reference to FIGS. 1 rear surfaces are abutted with each other. By a predetermined
through 23 of the accompanying drawings. large force of the hinge device 10, the transmission section 2
0052 FIGS. 1 through 5 show a portable telephone set 1 in and the reception section 3 can be kept respectively in the
which a biaxial hinge device 10 according to the present folding position, an intermediate position shown in FIG. 3
invention is used. This portable telephone set 1 includes a turned 180 degrees from the folding position and the reverse
transmission section 2 and a reception section 3 turnably folding position, and stopped in any desired position respec
connected to each other through the biaxial hinge device 10. tively in a predetermined first restricting range between the
0053. The transmission section 2 includes a front half folding position and the intermediate position and a predeter
body 2A provided at a front surface thereof with a control mined second restricting range between the intermediate
button 2a, and a rear halfbody 2B fixed to a rear surface of the position and the reverse folding position by a predetermined
front half body 2A. As shown in FIG. 5, a groove part is large force. It should be noted that although the transmission
formed in one side part (left side part in FIG.5) of one end part section 2 and the reception section 3 are relatively turnable, it
(end part on the reception section 3 side) of each of the front is presumed, just for the sake of convenience for explanation,
half body 2A and the rear half body 2B. Those groove parts in the description to follow that the transmission section 2 is
are arranged such that they are opposite to each other when positionally fixed and the reception section 3 is turned with
the front halfbody 2A and the rear halfbody 2B are fixed, and respect to the transmission section 2 between the folding
an engagement hole 2b having a non-circular configuration in position and the reverse folding position.
section (rectangular configuration in section in this embodi 0056. The biaxial hinge device 10 for turnably connecting
ment) is constituted by those two groove parts. In FIG. 5, the the transmission section 2 and the reception section3 together
two grooves constituting the engagement hole 2b are denoted includes, as shown in FIG. 5, an outer case 11 having a
by 2b, 2b, respectively. A semi-circular groove part is formed bottomed cylindrical configuration, a closure member fixedly
in the other side part of the above-mentioned one end part of fitted to an opening part of the outer case 11 and a hinge
each of the front half body 2A and the rear half body 2B. assembly 20.
Those groove parts are arranged to be opposed to each other 0057 The outer case 11 has a figure-8 configuration in
when the front half body 2A and the rear half body 2B are section and is turnably arranged between adjacent one end
fixed. A fitting hole 2c having a circular configuration in parts, in FIG. 5, of the transmission section 2 and reception
section is constituted by the two groove parts. The fitting hole section 3 Such that its longitudinal direction is aligned with
2c and the engagement hole 2b are arranged Such that their the axes of the engagement holes 2b, 3b and fitting holes 2c,
axes are aligned to each other. In FIG. 5, the two grooves 3c, its opening part is directed to the engagement holes 2b, 3b
constituting the fitting hole 2c are each denoted by reference and its bottom part is directed to the fitting holes 2c, 3c. A pair
numeral 2c. offitting cylindrical parts 11a, 11b parallel to the longitudinal
0054 The reception section 3 includes a front half body direction of the outer case 11 are formed on an outer surface
3A which is provided at a front surface thereof with a liquid of the bottom part of the outer case 11. The fitting cylindrical
crystal display part 3a and a rear halfbody 3B which is fixed part (third attachment part) 11a is turnably fitted to an end part
to a rear surface of the front half body 3A. As shown in FIG. on the engagement hole 2b side of the fitting hole 2c and the
5, a groove part is formed in one side part (left side part in other fitting cylindrical part (fourth attachment part) 11b is
FIG. 5) of one end part (end part on the transmission section turnably fitted to an end part on the engagement hole 3b side
2 side in FIG.5) of each of the front halfbody 3A and the rear of the fitting hole 3c. Owing to this arrangement, one and the
halfbody 3B. Those groove parts are arranged to be opposed other side parts on the bottom part side of the outer case 11 are
to each other when the front half body 3A and the rear half turnably connected to the transmission section 2 and the
body 3B are fixed. An engagement hole 3b having a non reception section 3, respectively. In other words, the other
circular configuration in section is constituted by the two side parts (right side parts in FIG. 5) of one end parts of the
groove parts. This engagement hole3b has the same sectional transmission section 2 and reception section 3 are turnably
configuration as the engagement hole 2b. The engagement connected to each other through the outer case 11. It is, of
hole 3b is formed such that its axis is aligned with that of the course, accepted that the fitting cylindrical part 11a is fitted to
engagement hole 2b. In FIG. 5, the two grooves constituting the fitting hole 3c and the fitting cylindrical part 11b is fitted
the engagement hole 3b are each denoted by reference to the engagement hole 2c.
numeral 3b. A semi-circular groove partis formed in the other 0.058 Cutout parts 11c. 11d are formed in the fitting cylin
side part of one end part of each of the front halfbody 3A and drical parts 11a, 11b, respectively. A flat cable 4 is inserted in
the rear half body 3B. Those groove parts are arranged to be the fitting cylindrical parts 11a, 11b through the cutout parts
opposed to each other when the front half body 3A and the 11c. 11d. The flat cable 4 is spirally coiled within the respec
rear halfbody 3B are fixed. A fitting hole 3c having a circular tive fitting cylindrical parts 11a, 11b. One end part of the flat
configuration in section is constituted by the two groove parts. cable 4 externally projecting from the fitting cylindrical part
This fitting hole 3c is arranged such that its axis is aligned 11a is connected to an electronic equipment (not shown)
with that of the engagement hole 3b. In FIG. 5, the two disposed within the transmission section 2, and the other end
grooves constituting the fitting hole 3c are each denoted by part externally projecting from the fitting cylindrical part 11b
reference numeral 3c. is connected to an electronic equipment (not shown) disposed
0055 One end portions of the transmission section 2 and within the reception section3. Owing to this arrangement, the
reception section 3 are turnably connected to each other electronic equipment disposed within the transmission sec
through the biaxial hinge device 10. The transmission section tion 2 and the electronic equipment disposed within the
2 and the reception section 3 can turn in a range of about 360 reception section 3 are electrically connected to each other
US 2008/0307608 A1 Dec. 18, 2008

through the flat cable 4. In case the flat cable 4 is not inserted necting shaft 22. The first and second hinge members 23A,
in the fitting cylindrical parts 11a, 11b, the cutout parts 11c. 23B are identically or symmetrically constituted excepting
11d are unnecessary and the fitting cylindrical parts 11a, 11b parts thereof. Hence, in the description to follow, only the first
may be each formed as a solid shaft part. In FIGS. 2 and 4, the hinge member 23A will be described. With respect to the
flat cable 4 is not shown. second hinge member 23B, only different components from
0059. The hinge assembly 20 includes, as shown in FIGS. those of the first hinge member 23A will be described, and
6 through 10, an inner case 21. The inner case 21 has a identical or symmetrical components to those of the first
bottomed cylindrical configuration and has a similar sectional hinge member 23A will be labeled in the same manner and
configuration to that of the outer case 11. The inner case 21 is description thereof will be omitted.
almost tightly inserted in the outer case 11 through the open 0062. The first hinge member 23A includes a disc part 23a
ing part. Accordingly, the inner case 21 is non-turnably fitted and a shaft part (first attachment part) 23b which are inte
to the outer case 11 and turned integrally with the outer case grally formed with their axes aligned to each other. The first
11. Thus, the inner case 21 and the outer case 11 may be hinge member 23A is arranged such that an end face on the
integrally formed. As apparent from the foregoing, in this opposite side to the shaft part 23b of the disc part 23a is
embodiment, a hinge main body is constituted by the outer opposed to an end face on the opening side of the inner case
case 11 and the inner case 21. The bottom part of the inner 21 and its axis (axes of the disc part 23a and shaft part 23b) is
case 21 is in abutment with an inner surface of the bottom part aligned with the axis of the receiving hole 21a. A lock hole
of the outer case 11. Accordingly, the inner case 21 is non 23c extending from an end face of the disc part 23a opposed
movable in a direction from the opening part to the bottom to the inner case 21 toward the shaft part 23b and a hole 23d
part of the outer case 11. As shown in FIG. 10, the inner case extending from a tip surface of the shaft part 23b toward the
21 includes two receiving holes 21a, 21b extending from one disc part 23a are formed on a central part of the first hinge
end face thereof toward the other end (bottom part). Those member 23A. The inside diameter of the hole 23d is larger
two receiving holes 21a, 21b extend in parallel to each other. than that of the lock hole 23c. The other end of one of the
Moreover, those two receiving holes 21a, 21b are arranged connecting shafts 22 is non-turnably fitted to the lock hole
such that their axes are aligned with the axes of the fitting 23c. The other end of the connecting shaft 22 is projected
cylindrical parts 11a, 11b of the outer case 11, respectively. from the lock hole 23c toward the hole 23d and the projected
Adjacent side parts of those two receiving holes 21a, 21b are end part is caulked as indicated by an imaginary line in FIGS.
communicated with each other through a communicating part 8 and 9, thereby prohibiting the first hinge member 23A from
21c. The inside diameter of the receiving holes 21a, 21b is set escaping from the right side toward the left side of FIG.8 with
to be slightly smaller than a half of their center-to-center respect to the connecting shaft 22. As a result, the first hinge
distance. Accordingly, by forming a partition wall for parti member 23A and the connecting shaft 22 are prohibited from
tioning the receiving holes 21a, 21b instead of a provision of moving leftward of FIG.8 by the head part 22a and prohibited
the communicating part 21c, the receiving holes 21a, 21b from moving rightward of FIG. 8 by a caulking part with
may be formed as independent holes. respect to the inner case 21. Owing to this arrangement, the
0060. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, two through-holes. 21d inner case 21, the connecting shaft 22 and the first hinge
are formed in the bottom part of the inner case 21. One of the member 23A are integrated. Since a slight gap is present
through-holes 21d is formed such that its axis is aligned with between the disc part 23a and the inner case 21, the first hinge
that of the receiving hole 21a. The other through-hole 21d is member 23A and the connecting shaft 22 are movable in the
formed such that its axis is aligned with that of the receiving axial direction by a portion equal to the gap. Actually, how
hole 21b. A connecting shaft 22 is turnably inserted in the ever, the first hinge member 23A and the connecting shaft 22
through-holes 21d. A head part 22a having a larger diameter are never moved in the axial direction.
than the through holes 21d is formed on one end part of the 0063. The second hinge member 23B also includes a disc
connecting shaft 22. This head part 22a is brought into abut part 23a and a shaft part (second attachment part) 23b. The
ment with an outer surface of the bottom part of the inner case second hinge member 23B is arranged Such that its axis is
21, thereby prohibiting movement of the connecting shaft 22 aligned with that of the receiving hole 21b and connected to
from the bottom part to the opening part of the inner case 21. the other end part of the other connecting shaft 22 in the same
A place slightly offset toward the other end part from a central manner as the first hinge member 23A.
part of the connecting shaft 22 is turnably fitted to a through 0064. A first gear 24A is non-turnably externally fitted to
hole 25a of a movable member 25 as later described. One end the shaft part 23b of the first hinge member 23A and a second
part and an intermediate part of the connecting shaft 22 are gear 24B is non-turnably externally fitted to the shaft part 23b
turnably fitted to the through-holes. 21d, 25a respectively, of the second hinge member 23B. The first and second gears
thereby turnably Supporting the connecting shafts 22, 22 on 24A, 24B have same gear dimensions and are meshed with
the inner case 21 and thus, turnably supporting the connecting each other. Accordingly, the first and second hinge members
shafts 22, 22 on the outer case 11. Of course, the axis of one 23A, 23B are rotated at the same speed in the reverse direc
of the connecting shafts 22 is aligned with that of the con tion.
necting hole 21a and the axis of the other connecting shaft 22 0065. The inner case 21, the first and second hinge mem
is aligned with that of the connecting hole 21b. bers 23A, 23B and the first and second gears 24A, 24B are
0061 The other end parts of the respective connecting inserted in the outer case 11 excepting the tip parts of the shaft
holes 22 are externally projected through the opening part of parts 23b, 23b of the first and second hinge members 23A,
the inner case 21. A first hinge member (first hinge shaft) 23A 23B. Moreover, the first and second hinge members 23A, 23B
is fixedly fitted to the other end part projecting from the inner and the first and second gears 24A, 24B are turnably received
case 21 of one of the connecting shafts 22. A second hinge in the outer case 11. A closure member 12 is fixedly fitted to
member (second hinge shaft) 23B is fixedly fitted to the other an end part on the opening side of the outer case 11. This
end part projecting from the inner case 21 of the other con closure member 12 is in contact with the end faces of the first
US 2008/0307608 A1 Dec. 18, 2008

and second gears 24A, 24B. Accordingly, the hinge assembly has the same outer configuration as the inner sectional con
20 is prohibited from moving in an axial direction of the outer figuration of the inner case 21 and is non-turnably fitted to the
case 11 by the bottom part of the outer case 11 and the closure interior of the inner case 21. Accordingly, the movable mem
member 12 and prevented from escaping with respect to the ber 25 is turned integrally with the inner case 21 and the outer
outer case 11. case 11. The movable member 25 is received in the inner case
0066 Mutually parallel two planes are formed on both 21 such that the movable member 25 is movable with respect
side parts of an outer peripheral surface of the shaft part 23b to the axial direction of the receiving holes 21a, 21b. More
of the first hinge member 23A. Owing to this arrangement, the over, the movable member 25 is penetrated by the connecting
sectional configuration of the shaft part 23b is same as that of shafts 22, 22 such that the movable member 25 is movable in
the engagement hole 2b. The tip part of the shaft part 23b is the axial direction thereof (axial direction of the receiving
turnably passed through the closure member 12, and the tip holes 21a, 21b). A first coiled spring (first biasing means) 26A
part of the shaft part 23b externally projecting from the clo is disposed in an annular space between the inner peripheral
Sure member 12 is non-turnably fitted to the engagement hole surface of the receiving hole 21a and the outer peripheral
2b of the transmission section 2. On the other hand, the shaft Surface of one of the connecting shafts 22 arranged in the
part 23b of the second hinge member 23B is non-turnably receiving hole 21a, and a second coiled spring (second bias
fitted to the engagement hole 3b of the reception section 3. ing means) 26B is disposed in an annular space between the
Although the shaft parts 23b, 23b of the first and second hinge inner peripheral surface of the receiving hole 21b and the
members 23A, 23B are non-turnably fitted to the engagement outer peripheral surface of the other connecting shaft 22
holes 2b, 3b respectively, the first and second hinge members arranged in the receiving hole 21b. One end parts of the first
23A, 23B are turnable with respect to the inner case 21 and the and second coiled springs 26A, 26B are abutted with the
outer case 11. Moreover, the fitting cylindrical parts 11a, 11b bottom part of the inner case 21 and the other end parts are
of the outer case 11 are turnably fitted to the fitting holes 2c, abutted with the movable member 25. As a result, the movable
3c of the transmission section 2 and the reception section 3 member 25 is biased toward the disc parts 23a, 23a of the first
respectively. Accordingly, the transmission section 2 and the and second hinge members 23A, 23B by the first and second
reception section 3 are turnably connected to each other coiled springs 26A, 26B. In case the receiving holes 21a, 21b
through the hinge device 10. are formed independently from each other, the movable mem
0067. When the transmission section 2 is positionally ber 25 is separated into two parts and the separated two parts
fixed and the reception section 3 is turned with respect to the are fitted to the independent two receiving holes such that the
transmission section 2, the outer case 11 (and the inner case two parts are non-turnable but movable in the axial direction.
21) is turned about the first hinge member 23A in accordance (0070. As shown in FIG.9, a pair of spherical bodies 27A,
with the turning movement of the reception section 3. When 27B are fixedly embedded in an end face of the movable
the outer case 11 is turned by an angle 0, the second hinge member 25 opposed to the disc part 23a of the first hinge
member 23B and the second gear 24B are revolved by the member 23A with about /3 of the pair of spherical bodies
angle 0 about the first hinge member 23A integrally with the 27A, 27B externally projected. The pair of spherical bodies
outer case 11. Since the second gear 24B is meshed with the 27A, 27B are arranged 180 degrees away from each other in
first gear 24A at that time, when the second gear 24B is the peripheral direction about the axis of the first hinge mem
revolved, the second gear 24B is turned by the same angle as ber 23A. Moreover, the spherical body 27A is arranged on the
the revolving angle around its own axis. As a result, the outer periphery side of the disc part 23a and the other spheri
reception section 3 is turned by angle 20 with respect to the cal body 27B is arranged more on the inner periphery side of
transmission section 2. Moreover, since the first and second the disc part 23a than the spherical body 27A.
gears 24A, 24B are meshed with each other, the reception (0071. As shown in FIGS. 16 through 19, a pair of first
section 3 is not turned only about the first hinge member 23A recesses 28A, 28B are formed in an end faces of the disc part
nor only about the second hinge member 23B. Instead, the 23a of the first hinge member 23A opposed to the movable
reception section 3 is turned about the first hinge member 23A member 25. As shown in FIG. 20, the pair of recesses 28A,
and also about the second hinge member 23B simultaneously. 28B are arranged such that when the reception section is
Accordingly, the reception section 3 is always turned along a located in the folding position, the spherical bodies 27A, 27B
constant locus. are press contacted with inclination surfaces 28a, 28b,
0068. As mentioned above, the reception section 3 is turn respectively, which form a part of the bottom surfaces on the
able by 360 degrees from the folding position to the reverse recesses 28A, 28B. When the spherical bodies 27A, 27B are
folding position via the intermediate position. Moreover, in press contacted with the inclination surfaces 28a, 28b respec
this hinge device, there is provided a first turn biasing means tively, biasing force of the first and second coiled springs 26A,
40 in order to keep the reception section 3 in the folding 26B are converted to turn biasing force. By this turn biasing
position with a predetermined force, there is also provided a force, the first hinge member 23A and the first gear 24A are
second turn biasing means 50 in order to keep the reception turn biased in an arrowed direction (one direction) A of FIG.
section3 in the reverse folding position, there is also provided 16. However, since it is presumed that the transmission sec
a turn prohibiting means 70 in order to keep the reception tion 2 is positionally fixed, the first hinge member 23A and the
section 3 in the intermediate position with a predetermined first gear 24A are not turned in the arrowed direction A.
force, and there is also provided a third turn biasing means 60 (0072 A pair of spherical bodies 27A, 27B are also fixedly
in order to prevent the occurrence of rattle between the trans embedded in the end face of the movable member 25 opposed
mission section 2 and the reception section 3 in the interme to the disc part 23a of the second hinge member 23B and a
diate position. pair of first recesses 28A, 28B are also formed in an end face
0069. That is, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, a movable of the disc part 23a of the second hinge member 23B opposed
member 25 is received in an end part on the opening side of to the movable member 25. When the reception section 3 is
the inside part of the inner case 21. The movable member 25 located in the folding position, the pair of spherical bodies
US 2008/0307608 A1 Dec. 18, 2008

27A, 27B are pressed against the inclination surfaces 28a, respectively, by biasing force of the coiled springs 26A, 26B.
28b of the pair of recesses 28A, 28B by biasing force of the The biasing force of the coiled springs 26A, 26B is converted
coiled springs 26A, 26B. When the pair of spherical bodies to turn biasing force forturnbiasing the second hinge member
27A, 27B are pressed against the inclination surfaces 28a, 23B and the second gear 24B in an arrowed direction (the
28b of the pair of recesses 28A, 28B respectively, the biasing other direction) D of FIG. 19 by the pair of spherical bodies
force of the coiled springs 26A, 26B is converted to turn 27A, 27B and the inclination surfaces 28c. 28d. By this turn
biasing force. By this turn biasing force, the second hinge biasing force, the reception section 3 is kept in the reverse
member 23B and the second gear 24B are turn biased in an folding position.
arrowed direction (one direction) B of FIG. 16. As a result, the 0076. As apparent from the foregoing description, in this
reception section 3 is turn biased in a direction from the hinge device, the second turn biasing means 50 is constituted
intermediate position toward the folding position. Accord by each set of the coiled springs 26A, 26B, the spherical body
ingly, the reception section 3 is kept in the folding position 27A and the inclination surface 28c of the recess 28C of the
where the front surface of the reception section 3 is abutted first hinge member 23A; the coiled springs 26A, 26B, the
with that of the transmission section 2. spherical body 27B and the inclination surface 28d of the
0073. As apparent from the foregoing description, in this recess 28D of the first hinge member 23A; the coiled springs
hinge device, the first turn biasing means 40 is constituted by 26A, 26B, the spherical body 27A and the inclination surface
each set of the coiled springs 26A, 26B, the spherical body 28c of the recess 28C of the second hinge member 23B; and
27A and the inclination surface 28a of the recess 28A of the the coiled springs 26A, 26B, the spherical body 27B and the
first hinge member 23A; the coiled springs 26A, 26B, the inclination surface 28d of the recess 28D of the second hinge
spherical body 27B and the inclination surface 28b of the member 23B. Of course, it is not necessary to use all of the
recess 28B of the first hinge member 23A; the coiled springs above-mentioned four sets as the second turn biasing means
26A, 26B, the spherical body 27A and the inclination surface 50. Only any desired one through three sets may be used as the
28a of the recess 28A of the second hinge member 23B; and second turn biasing means 50.
the coiled springs 26A, 26B, the spherical body 27B and the 0077. There is provided a turn prohibiting means 70 in
inclination surface 28b of the recess 28B of the second hinge order to keep the reception section 3 in the intermediate
member 23B. Of course, it is not necessary to use all of the position 180 degrees spaced away from the folding position
above-mentioned four sets as the first turn biasing means 40. toward the reverse folding position by a predetermined force.
Only any desired one through three sets may be used as the That is, a pair of third recesses 28E, 28F are formed in the end
first turn biasing means 40. face of the disc part 23a of the first hinge member 23A
0074. A pair of second recesses 28C. 28D are formed in opposed to the movable member 25. The recess 28E is
the end face of the disc part 23a of the first hinge member 23A arranged in a central part between the recesses 28A, 28C on
opposed to the movable member 25. The pair of second the same circumference as the recesses 28A, 28C and the
recesses 28C. 28D are 180 degrees away from each other in other recess 28F is arranged in a central part between the
the peripheral direction. The second recess 28C is arranged recesses 28B, 28D on the same circumference as the recesses
on the same circumference as the first recess 28A in Such a 28B, 28D. Accordingly, when the reception section 3 is
manner as to be away by a predetermined angle (200 degrees turned to the intermediate position, as shown in FIGS. 18 and
in this embodiment) from the first recess 28A in the peripheral 22(A), the spherical body 27A is simultaneously brought into
direction. The other second recess 28D is arranged on the contact with mutually reversely inclined two inclination Sur
same circumference as the first recess 28B in Such a manner faces 28e, 28e which constitute a bottom surface of the recess
as to be away by the same angle as the separation angle 28E, and the spherical body 27B is simultaneously brought
between the first recess 28A and the second recess 28C from into contact with mutually reversely inclined two inclination
the first recess 28B in the peripheral direction. The separation surfaces 28f 28f which constitute a bottom surface of the
angles between the first recesses 28A, 28B and the second recess 28F. By this, the first hinge member 23A and the first
recesses 28C. 28D are set such that when the reception sec gear 24A are prohibited from turning normally and reversely
tion 3 is located in the reverse folding position as shown in by a predetermined force. Accordingly, in this hinge device
FIGS. 19 and 23, the pair of spherical bodies 27A, 27B are 10, the turn prohibiting means 70 is constituted by each set of
press contacted with the inclination surfaces 28c. 28d, respec the coiled springs 26A, 26B, the spherical body 27A and the
tively, which form a part of the bottom surfaces of the pair of inclination surfaces 28e, 28e of the recess 28E; and the coiled
recesses 28C, 28D. When the spherical bodies 27A, 27B are springs 26A, 26B, the spherical body 27B and the inclination
press contacted against the inclination Surfaces 28c. 28d surfaces 28f 28f of the recess 28F. Of course, only desired one
respectively, the turn biasing force of the first and second of the two sets may be used as the turn prohibiting means 70.
coiled springs 26A, 26B is converted to turn biasing force. By (0078. A pair of fourth recesses 28G, 28Hareformed in the
this turn biasing force, the first hinge member 23A and the end face of the disc part 23a of the second hinge member 23B
first gear 24A are turn biased in the arrowed direction (the opposed to the movable member 25. The recess 2.8G is
other direction) C of FIG. 19. As mentioned above, however, arranged on the same circumference as the recesses 28A,
since it is presumed that the transmission section 2 is posi 28C. With respect to the position in the circumferential direc
tionally fixed, the first hinge member 23A and the first gear tion, however, the recess 2.8G is located in a position slightly
24A are not turned in the arrowed direction C. offset toward either the recess 28A or the recess 28C (toward
0075. Likewise, a pair of second recesses 28C. 28D are the recess 28C in this embodiment) from a central part ther
formed in the end face of the disc part 23a of the second hinge ebetween. The other recess 28H is arranged on the same
member 23B opposed to the movable member 25. When the circumference as the recesses 28B, 28D. With respect to the
reception section 3 is located in the folding position, the pair position in the peripheral direction, the recess 28H is located
of spherical bodies 27A, 27B are pressed against the inclina in a position slightly offset toward either the recess 28B or the
tion surfaces 28c. 28d of the pair of recesses 28C, 28D, recess 28D (toward the recess 28D in this embodiment) from
US 2008/0307608 A1 Dec. 18, 2008

a central part therebetween. As a result, when the reception turn biasing means 40 and the front surface of the reception
section 3 reaches the intermediate position, as shown in FIG. section 3 is abutted with the front surface of the transmission
22(B), the spherical bodies 27A, 27B are press contacted with section 2. Moreover, the reception section 3 is turn biased
the inclination surfaces 28g, 28h which constitute apart of the through the second gear part 24B which is meshed with the
bottom surfaces of the recesses 28G, 28H, respectively. By first gear 24A which is fixed to the transmission section 2, and
this, the biasing force of the coiled springs 26A, 26B are the flanks of the gears 24A, 24B are press contacted with each
converted to turn biasing force. By this turn biasing force, the other by turn biasing force of the first turn biasing means 40.
second hinge member 23B and the second gear 24B are turn Accordingly, the reception section 3 is not rattled even if a
biased in an arrowed direction (clockwise direction) of FIG. backlash is present between the gears 24A, 24B. This is also
18, and the first gear 24A and the first hinge member 23A are true when the reception section 3 is located in the intermedi
turn biased in a counterclockwise direction through the sec ate position and in the reverse folding position.
ond gear 24B. Accordingly, in this hinge device 10, the third I0082. When the reception section 3 is turned by a prede
turn biasing means 60 is constituted by each set of the coiled termined angle (10 degrees in this embodiment) toward the
springs 26A, 26B, the spherical body 27A and the inclination intermediate position against the turn biasing force of the first
surface 28g of the recess 28G; and the coiled springs 26A, turn biasing means 40, the spherical bodies 27A, 27B are
26B, the spherical body 27B and the inclination surface 28h brought out of the recesses 28A, 28B respectively. Thereafter,
of the recess 28H. Of course, only one of the two sets may the spherical bodies 27A, 27B are slid on the bottom surfaces
constitute the third turn biasing means 60. of the guide grooves 29A, 29B respectively. When the recep
0079 If the inclination angles of the inclination surfaces tion section 3 is turned to a position located this way by a
28e, 28f of the recesses 28E, 28F are represented by a and the predetermined angle (10 degrees in this embodiment) with
inclination angles of the inclination surfaces 28g, 28h of the respect to the intermediate position, the spherical bodies 27A,
recesses 28G, 28Hare represented by B, the following expres 27B are brought into the recesses 28E, 28F respectively.
sion can be obtained. Then, the first hinge member 23A is biased in the arrowed
C.- direction A of FIG. 16 by the inclination surfaces 28e, 28f of
the recesses 28E, 28F. By this, the reception section 3 is
Accordingly, the turn prohibiting force of the turn prohibiting biased toward the intermediate position. When the reception
means 70 with respect to the first hinge member 23A (first section 3 reaches the intermediate position, the spherical
gear 24A) is larger than the turn biasing force of the third turn body 27A is abutted with the two inclination surfaces 28e, 28e
biasing means 60 transmitted to the first hinge member 23A simultaneously and the spherical body 27B is abutted with the
through the second hinge member 23B, the second gear 24B two inclination surfaces 28f 28f simultaneously. As a result,
and the first gear 24A. Thus, the first and second hinge mem the reception section3 is stopped in the intermediate position
bers 23A, 23B are not turned, and the reception section 3 is by a predetermined force. That is, the reception section 3 is
kept in the intermediate position. Moreover, since the second stopped in the intermediate position by the turn prohibiting
gear 24B which is turned biased is meshed with the first gear means 70. When the reception section 3 is turned toward the
24A which is prohibited from turning, the respective flanks of intermediate position by a portion equal to a deviation of the
the first and second gears 24A, 24B are kept in a mutually phase of the recesses 28G, 28H in a peripheral direction with
press contacted State even if a backlash is present between the respect to the recesses 28E, 28F, the spherical bodies 27A,
gears 24A, 24B. Accordingly, rattling caused by backlash 27B are brought into the recesses 28E, 28F respectively.
does not occur between the transmission section 2 and the When the reception section 3 reaches the stop position, the
reception section 3 in the intermediate position. spherical bodies 27A, 27B are press contacted with the incli
0080 Guide grooves 29A, 29B are formed in the end face nation surfaces 28g. 28h of the recesses 28G, 2.8H respec
of the disc part 23a of the first hinge member 23A opposed to tively. As a result, the third turn biasing means 60 turn biases
the movable member 25. The guide groove 29A extends from the second hinge member 3 in the arrowed direction B of FIG.
the recess 28A to the recess 28C via the recess 28E on the 16 and urges the flank of the second gear 24B against that of
circumference where the recesses 28A, 28C, 28E are the first gear 24A. Hence, in the intermediate position, the
arranged. Accordingly, when the reception section3 is turned, reception section 3 is not rattled by backlash.
the spherical body 27A is moved between the recesses 28A, I0083. When the reception section 3 is turned from the
28E (first restricting range) and between the recesses 28E. intermediate position toward the reverse folding position by a
28C (second restricting range) while sliding within the guide predetermined angle (10 degrees in this embodiment), the
groove 29A. The other guide groove 29B extends from the spherical bodies 27A, 27B are brought out of the recesses
recess 28B to the recess 28D via the recess 28F on the cir 28E, 28F respectively. Then, the spherical bodies 27A, 27B
cumference where the recesses 28B, 28D, 28F are arranged. are slid on the bottom surfaces of the guide grooves 29A, 29B
Accordingly, when the reception section 3 is turned, the respectively in accordance with the turning movement of the
spherical body 27B is moved between the recesses 28B, 28F reception section 3. Thereafter, when the reception section 3
(first restricting range) and between the recesses 28F, 28D is further turned by a portion equal to a deviation of the phase
while sliding within the guide groove 29B. Likewise, a pair of of the recesses 28G, 28H with respect to the recesses 28E.
guide grooves 29A, 29B are formed in the end face of the disc 28F, the spherical bodies 27A, 27B are brought out of the
part 23a of the second hinge member 23B opposed to the recesses 28G, 2.8H respectively. After being brought out of
movable member 25. the recesses 28G, 28H, the spherical bodies 27A, 27B are slid
0081. In the hinge device thus constructed, it is presume on the bottom surfaces of the guide grooves 29A, 29B respec
that the reception section 3 is located in the folding position. tively in accordance with the turning movement toward the
When the reception section 3 is in the folding position, the reverse folding position of the reception section 3. When the
reception section 3 is turn biased in a direction toward the reception section3 reaches a position this way by a predeter
folding position from the intermediate position by the first mined angle (10 degrees in this embodiment) of the reverse
US 2008/0307608 A1 Dec. 18, 2008

folding position, the spherical bodies 27A, 27B are brought can be manufactured at a low cost. Moreover, when the recep
into the recesses 28C, 28D respectively and urged against the tion section 3 is located in the predetermined first restricting
inclination surfaces 28c. 28d respectively. As a result, the range between the folding position and the intermediate posi
reception section 3 is turned to the reverse folding position. tion and in the predetermined second restricting range
That is, the reception section3 is turned to the reverse folding between the intermediate position and the reverse folding
position by the second turn biasing means 50. When the position, the reception section 3 can be stopped in an optional
reception section3 is turned to the reverse folding position, its position.
rear surface is abutted with that of the transmission section 2 I0088. It should be noted that the present invention should
and stopped, and the reception section 3 is kept in the reverse not be limited to the above-mentioned embodiments but
folding position by the second turn biasing means 50. many changes and modifications can be made without depart
0084. In case the reception section 3 is turned from the ing from the gist of the invention.
reverse folding position to the folding position, the reception I0089 For example, in the above-mentioned embodiments,
3 may be turned in a procedure reverse to the above-men a biaxial hinge device according to the present invention is
tioned procedure and description thereof is omitted. applied to a portable telephone set. However, a biaxial hinge
I0085. When the spherical bodies 27A, 27B are in contact device according to the present invention can also be applied
with the bottom surfaces of the guide grooves 29A, 29B to other portable equipments such as a notebook type per
respectively, the spherical bodies 27A, 27B are urged against Sonal computer and the like.
the bottom surfaces of the guide grooves 29A, 29B by the 0090 Moreover, contrary to the manner in the above-men
biasing force of the coiled springs 26A, 26B respectively. tioned embodiments, it is accepted that the first hinge member
Accordingly, friction resistance for prohibiting the turn of the 23A is connected to the reception section 3 and the second
reception section 3 occurs between the outer surfaces of the hinge member 23B is connected to the transmission section 2.
spherical bodies 27A, 27B and the bottom surfaces of the INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
guide grooves 29A, 29B. This friction resistance is set to a
value just enough to prohibit the turn of the reception section 0091. A biaxial hinge device according to the present
3. Accordingly, when the reception section 3 is located in the invention can be used for a portable equipment Such as a
predetermined first restricting range (angle range of 160 portable telephone set and a notebook type personal com
degrees in this embodiment) between the folding position and puter.
the intermediate position and in the predetermined second
restricting range (angle range of 160 degrees in this embodi 1. A biaxial hinge device comprising:
ment) between the intermediate position and the reverse fold a hinge main body;
ing position, the reception section 3 can be stopped in an a first hinge shaft turnably Supported by said hinge main
optional position. As apparent from the foregoing, the first body;
turn restricting means 80 is constituted by each set of the a second hinge shaft arranged parallel to said first hinge
coiled springs 26A, 26B, the spherical body 27A and the shaft and turnably supported by said hinge main body;
guide groove 29A of the first hinge member 23A, and the a first gear non-turnably disposed at said first hinge shaft
coiled springs 26A. 26B, the spherical body 27B and the and a second gear non-turnably disposed at said second
guide groove 29B of the first hinge member 23A, and the hinge shaft and meshed with said first gear; and
second turn restricting means 90 is constituted by each set of a first turn biasing means adapted to turn bias said first
the coiled springs 26A, 26B, the spherical body 27A and the hinge shaft in one direction when said first hinge shaft is
guide groove 29A of the second hinge member 23B; and the located in a predetermined first position being disposed
coiled springs 26A, 26B, the spherical body 27B and the at least at one of between said hinge main body and said
guide groove 29B of the second hinge member 23B. Of first hinge shaft and between said hinge main body and
course, it is not necessary to use the above-mentioned two sets said second hinge shaft.
as the turn restricting means 80, 90 simultaneously. Any 2. The biaxial hinge device according to claim 1, further
optional one of the two sets may be used as the first and comprising:
second turn restricting means 80, 90. a second turn biasing means adapted to turn bias said first
I0086. In the biaxial hinge device 10 thus constructed, the hinge shaft in the other direction when said first hinge
reception section 3 can be kept in the folding position, the shaft is located in a predetermined second position away
intermediate position and the reverse folding position and the from said first position in a peripheral direction is dis
flanks of the first and second gears 24A, 24B can be press posed at least at one of between said hinge main body
contacted with each other in the folding position, the inter and said first hinge shaft and between said hinge main
mediate position and the reverse folding position. Accord body and said second hinge shaft.
ingly, even if a backlash is present between the flanks of the 3. The biaxial hinge device according to claim 2, further
first and second gears 24A, 24B, the reception section 3 can comprising:
be prevented from rattling by a portion equal to the backlash a first turn restricting means adapted to restrict turn of said
in the folding position, the intermediate position and the first hinge shaft with respect to said hinge main body
reverse folding position. with a predetermined force when said first hinge shaft is
0087. Since the first and second hinge members 23A, 23B located in a predetermined restriction range between
and the first and second gears 24A, 24B are separately formed said first position and said second position is disposed
from the transmission section 2 and the reception section 3 of between said hinge main body and said first hinge shaft;
a portable telephone set, it is not necessary to form the hinge and
members 23A, 23B and the gears 24A, 24B at the same time a second turn restricting means adapted to restrict turn of
the casings of the transmission section 2 and the reception said second hinge shaft with respect to said hinge main
section 3 are formed. Accordingly, a portable telephone set body with a predetermined force when said first hinge
US 2008/0307608 A1 Dec. 18, 2008

shaft is located in said restriction range is disposed a second attachment part wherein said second hinge shaft is
between said hinge main body and said second hinge provided at one end part thereof.
shaft. 9. The biaxial hinge device according to claim 3, further
4. The biaxial hinge device according to claim 3, further comprising:
comprising: a first attachment part wherein said first hinge shaft is
a third turn biasing means adapted to turn bias said first provided at one end part thereof; and
hinge shaft either in said one or the other direction when a second attachment part wherein said second hinge shaft is
said first hinge shaft is located in a predetermined inter provided at one end part thereof.
mediate position between said first position and said 10. The biaxial hinge device according to claim 4, further
second position is disposed at one of between said hinge comprising:
main body and said first hinge shaft and between said a first attachment part wherein said first hinge shaft is
hinge main body and said second hinge shaft; and provided at one end part thereof; and
a turn prohibiting means adapted to prohibit said first hinge a second attachment part wherein said second hinge shaft is
shaft from being turned by a turn biasing force of said provided at one end part thereof.
third turn biasing means with a predetermined prohibit 11. The biaxial hinge device according to claim 5, further
ing force when said first hinge shaft is located in said comprising:
intermediate position is disposed at the other. a first attachment part wherein said first hinge shaft is
5. The biaxial hinge device according to claim 4. provided at one end part thereof; and
wherein said first turn restricting means adapted to restrict a second attachment part wherein said second hinge shaft is
turn of said first hinge shaft with respect to said hinge provided at one end part thereof.
main body with a predetermined force when said first 12. The biaxial hinge device according to claim 8, further
hinge shaft is located in a predetermined first restriction comprising:
range between said first position and said intermediate a third attachment part, wherein said hinge main body is
position and when said first hinge shaft is located in a provided at a part thereoflocated on the same axis as the
predetermined second restriction range between said first hinge shaft with said third attachment part; and
intermediate position and said second position is dis a fourth attachment part, wherein said hinge main body is
posed at least at one of between said hinge main body provided at apart thereoflocated on the same axis as said
and said first hinge shaft and between said hinge main second hinge shaft with said fourth attachment part.
body and said second hinge shaft; and 13. The biaxial hinge device according to claim 9, further
said second turn restricting means adapted to restrict turn comprising:
of said second hinge shaft with respect to said hinge a third attachment part, wherein said hinge main body is
main body with a predetermined force when said first provided at a part thereoflocated on the same axis as the
hinge shaft is located in said first and second restriction first hinge shaft with said third attachment part; and
ranges is disposed between said hinge main body and a fourth attachment part, wherein said hinge main body is
said second hinge shaft. provided at apart thereoflocated on the same axis as said
6. The biaxial hinge device according to claim 1, further second hinge shaft with said fourth attachment part.
comprising: 14. The biaxial hinge device according to claim 10, further
comprising:
a first attachment part wherein said first hinge shaft is a third attachment part, wherein said hinge main body is
provided at one end part thereof; and provided at a part thereoflocated on the same axis as the
a second attachment part wherein said second hinge shaft is first hinge shaft with said third attachment part; and
provided at one end part thereof. a fourth attachment part, wherein said hinge main body is
7. The biaxial hinge device according to claim 6, further provided at apart thereoflocated on the same axis as said
comprising: second hinge shaft with said fourth attachment part.
a third attachment part, wherein said hinge main body is 15. The biaxial hinge device according to claim 11, further
provided at a part thereof located on the same axis as the comprising:
first hinge shaft with said third attachment part; and a third attachment part, wherein said hinge main body is
a fourth attachment part, wherein said hinge main body is provided at a part thereoflocated on the same axis as the
provided at apart thereoflocated on the same axis as said first hinge shaft with said third attachment part; and
second hinge shaft with said fourth attachment part. a fourth attachment part, wherein said hinge main body is
8. The biaxial hinge device according to claim 2, further provided at apart thereoflocated on the same axis as said
comprising: second hinge shaft with said fourth attachment part.
a first attachment part wherein said first hinge shaft is
provided at one end part thereof; and c c c c c