Detent torque hinges for secure closure of portable medical-grade refrigerator
Key Issues
- The need for a hinge that could securely close and fit into the portable refrigerator’s lid to prevent the escape of cold air.
- The need for consistent torque within each product to ensure the safe handling of the internal contents.
Product Information
Detent torque hinge HG-DTB
The torque hinge releases torque when closing, so there is no springback.
The Solution
- The hinge’s small size and multifunctionality both fits the compact size of the unit and provides detent functionality that prevents spring back from the lid—keeping the lid firmly closed.
- Sugatsune’s quality control ensures every hinge is within the specified torque tolerance.
The HG-DTB is used to secure a portable medical refrigerator lid in place and allows for easy and careful removal of the refrigerator’s contents.
Torque hinges are a convenient way to hold the lid or cover in place, but due to their construction, regular torque hinges are subject to a phenomenon known as "springback", in which the lid is lifted by a small amount of recoil when closing. However, with the HG-DTB detent torque hinge, it prevents springback from occurring.
The detent function helps maintain a static temperature within the unit
The multifunctional HG-DTB hinge keeps the portable refrigerator’s lid firmly closed without the use of additional hardware. Necessary for the proper storage of vaccines and other specimens, the detent hinge stops spring back of the lid (in the closed position) and prevents cold air from escaping. The HG-DTB’s compact construction also contributes to the overall portable design of the refrigerator. Additionally, the power of the detent hinge increases the lid’s shake resistance during transit.
Free stop movement allows for safe and easy use
It was required that the precision of the HG-DTB’s torque be maintained within a range that protected the contents of the refrigerator as well as allow for hands free use of the lid. The torque of the HG-DTB keeps the lid from falling or moving. This allows the user to handle the contents hands free without worrying about the lid accidently closing and damaging any fragile specimens.
