Display and display device

By introducing a movable hinge and a non-elastic plate structure into the vehicle display, combined with a motor-driven moving unit, the problem of the display obstructing the field of view when its size increases is solved, realizing a retractable display device that maintains rigidity and supports touch input.

CN117373342BActive Publication Date: 2026-07-10LG ELECTRONICS INC
View PDF 4 Cites 0 Cited by

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
LG ELECTRONICS INC
Filing Date
2023-06-12
Publication Date
2026-07-10

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing vehicle displays tend to obstruct the view in front when the panel size increases, and the functions of the dashboard panel to provide information to the user are insufficient when autonomous driving is not needed or are reduced in size. Furthermore, the flexible structure is difficult to maintain rigidity when bent.

Method used

Design a display device that combines a movable hinge and an inelastic plate to achieve a transition from a planar state to a curved state, and utilizes a motor-driven moving unit to perform linear and curved movements, thereby enhancing the rigidity of the display and reducing the exposed screen area.

Benefits of technology

It enables the large screen display to be unfolded when needed and the screen to shrink its footprint when not in use, ensuring that the display remains rigid in a curved state to avoid obstructing the view and supporting touch input functionality.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

  • Figure CN117373342B_ABST
    Figure CN117373342B_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

This invention relates to displays and display devices. The display of this invention is deformable from a first state to a second state, wherein the first state is a planar state and the second state is a curved surface state with changed curvature. The display includes: a flexible display panel; a movable hinge located on the back of the flexible display panel, capable of deforming in response to bending deformation during the transition from the first state to the second state; and a non-elastic plate coupled to the back of the movable hinge, lacking extensibility. The non-elastic plate wrinkles in the first state and unfolds in the second state, limiting the curvature of the display. The display device of this invention can be extended or retracted, extended when needed and retracted when not needed, thereby reducing the size of the exposed screen. The rigidity of the display portion is improved through a back support structure and a non-elastic plate that prevents reverse bending deformation, thus preventing damage to the display within the flexible structure.
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to displays and display devices, and more specifically, to a display device that can be moved and brought in or out when needed. Background Technology

[0002] Vehicles include various input and output units as user interface devices. In the prior art, input units are mainly mechanical input units such as buttons, knobs, and levers. However, in recent years, there has been an increasing trend in vehicles that utilize methods that allow users to input more intuitively, such as voice input units, touch input units, and gesture input units.

[0003] As an output unit, the most basic output unit is a cluster of instruments including a dashboard that provides information such as vehicle speed, RPM, and fuel level. However, with the improvement of display technology and the increasing precision and diversity of vehicle functions, the number of vehicles that include displays to output various types of content is increasing.

[0004] In existing technology, small LCD screens for sound output are all that's needed. However, in recent years, large displays for navigation and vehicle status have been used in the central dashboard between the driver and passenger seats. Furthermore, the instrument cluster can also provide various information using non-pin-type displays.

[0005] In addition, in order to allow users to see key information without taking their eyes off the road, HUDs (head-up displays) that output on the windshield have become widespread, allowing drivers to check speed or navigation guidance while keeping their eyes on the road.

[0006] The display not only simply outputs information, but also has a touch sensor, enabling simultaneous touch input. Thus, it can function as both an output and an input unit, and therefore the size of displays used in vehicles is gradually increasing.

[0007] However, since the instrument panel and center dashboard are located at the front of the vehicle, increasing the panel size can obstruct the driver's view. Furthermore, in recent years, as autonomous driving functions have become more advanced, there are situations where the instrument panel providing information to the user is no longer needed or is reduced in size during autonomous driving. Therefore, a larger instrument panel size is not always better. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The purpose of this invention is to provide a display device that can be brought in or brought out, being brought out when needed and stored when not needed, thereby reducing the size of the exposed screen.

[0009] In addition, the present invention aims to provide a display device having a moving unit capable of simultaneously performing linear and curvilinear motion using the power of a single motor.

[0010] In addition, the purpose of this invention is to improve the rigidity of the display unit by means of a back support structure and a non-elastic plate that prevents reverse bending deformation, so as to prevent it from being damaged in a flexible structure.

[0011] A display is provided that can deform from a first state to a second state, wherein the first state is a planar state and the second state is a curved surface state with a change in curvature. The display includes: a flexible display panel; a movable hinge located on the back of the flexible display panel, capable of deforming in accordance with the bending deformation during the transition from the first state to the second state; and a non-elastic plate coupled to the back of the movable hinge, which is not elastic. The non-elastic plate wrinkles in the first state and unfolds in the second state to limit the curvature of the display.

[0012] The movable hinge may include a plurality of grooves, which extend horizontally and are arranged side by side vertically on the back of the movable hinge, and the folds of the non-elastic plate may be formed at positions corresponding to the grooves.

[0013] It may include a plurality of rigid ribs located between the plurality of said grooves and extending in a horizontal direction.

[0014] The rigid ribs may be arranged in a plurality of spaced apart in a horizontal direction, and the ends of adjacent rigid ribs in the vertical direction may be arranged to be staggered from each other.

[0015] The movable hinge may contain an elastic material, and the groove may have a V-shaped cross-section.

[0016] A display device capable of transforming from a first state to a second state includes: a fixing unit for mounting the aforementioned display; and a moving unit coupled to be movable relative to the fixing unit and to switch the display between the first and second states. The fixing unit may include: a vertical base extending in a vertical direction; and a side rail formed in front of the side of the vertical base, the lower portion of which protrudes and extends in a forward direction. The display may also include a guide hinge wing protruding from the back of the movable hinge and movable along the side rail.

[0017] The guide hinge wings may be arranged in a plurality of units in the vertical direction.

[0018] The vertical bases can be arranged in pairs in the horizontal direction, and the side rails can be formed on the side of each pair of vertical bases facing the display. The guide hinge wings can be formed symmetrically from left to right and combined with the pair of side rails.

[0019] The display may include: an upper planar portion located on the upper side with a constant curvature; a lower planar portion located on the lower side with a constant curvature; and a variable portion located between the upper planar portion and the lower planar portion, wherein the movable hinge is disposed on the variable portion, and may include: a first back plate coupled to the back of the upper planar portion; and a second back plate coupled to the back of the lower planar portion.

[0020] The first back plate includes a first extension fixed to the upper planar portion and covering at least a portion of the movable hinge, and the second back plate includes a second extension fixed to the lower planar portion and covering at least a portion of the movable hinge. The first extension and the second extension may not overlap.

[0021] The moving unit may include: a linear moving unit that moves vertically relative to the fixed unit and engages with the first back plate; and a curved moving unit that, when transitioning from the first state to the second state, draws a curve relative to the fixed unit and protrudes forward and downward, engaging with the second back plate. The display can be in a planar state in the first state, while in the second state, the lower part of the display protrudes forward through the moving unit and is in a curved surface state with changing curvature.

[0022] It may also include a drive unit that provides power to the curved movement unit, the curved movement unit may include: a lower arm including a curved rack and pinion gear that meshes with a pinion of the drive unit; and an upper arm that engages with the upper end of the lower arm to provide power to the linear movement unit.

[0023] A display device is provided, characterized in that it comprises: a fixed unit; a movable unit coupled to the fixed unit in a manner capable of moving relative to the fixed unit and transitioning from a first state to a second state; and a display portion including a variable portion coupled to and moving with the movable unit, wherein the variable portion is in a planar state in the first state and changes curvature in a curved state in the second state, the fixed unit comprising: a vertical base extending in a vertical direction; and a side track formed in front of the side of the vertical base, the lower side of which protrudes and extends in a frontal direction, the display portion comprising: a flexible display panel; a movable hinge located on the back of the flexible display panel and deformable in response to the bending deformation of the variable portion; and a guide hinge wing protruding from the back of the movable hinge and moving along the side track.

[0024] The guide hinge wings may be arranged in a plurality of units in the vertical direction.

[0025] The vertical bases are arranged in pairs in the horizontal direction, and the side rails can be formed on the side of each pair of vertical bases facing the display. The guide hinge wings can be formed symmetrically from left to right and combined with the pair of side rails.

[0026] The display portion may include: an upper planar portion located above the variable portion with a constant curvature; and a lower planar portion located below the variable portion with a constant curvature, and may include: a first back plate attached to the back of the upper planar portion; and a second back plate attached to the back of the lower planar portion.

[0027] A display device can be provided that can be brought out or brought out, brought out when needed and retracted when not needed, thereby reducing the size of the exposed screen.

[0028] Furthermore, the shape of the display device of the present invention can also be changed, thus having the advantage that the display section can be introduced or introduced even if the storage space and the lead-out direction are inconsistent.

[0029] By using a moving unit that transmits the force of a motor, the lower curved motion and the upper linear motion of the display section can be performed simultaneously using the force of a single motor.

[0030] It remains rigid even when bent, thus enabling touch input and other functions, and ensuring durability by preventing deformation in the opposite direction.

[0031] The applicable scope of the present invention will become clear from the following detailed description. However, those skilled in the art will readily understand various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention; therefore, the detailed description and specific embodiments, such as preferred embodiments of the invention, should be understood as examples only. Attached Figure Description

[0032] Figure 1 This is a front perspective view showing a first state of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 2 This is a front perspective view showing a second state of the display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 3 This is a rear perspective view showing a first state of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 4 This is a rear view showing a first state of the display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 5 This is a top view illustrating the movable unit of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 6 This is a rear perspective view showing a second state of the display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 7 This is a perspective view illustrating the movable unit of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the rear structure of the display section of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the side rail and hinge wing of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 10 This is an exploded perspective view of the display section and its rear structure of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating the movable hinge of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating the movable hinge and inelastic plate of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 13 This is a perspective view illustrating the movable unit of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 14 yes Figure 4 AA sectional view.

[0046] Figure 15 yes Figure 7 A′-A′ sectional view.

[0047] Figure 16 yes Figure 4 BB cross-sectional view.

[0048] Figure 17 yes Figure 7 The B′-B′ sectional view.

[0049] Figures 18 to 20 This is a diagram illustrating the sliding motion of the linear movement unit and the curved movement unit of the display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 21 This is a block diagram illustrating a vehicle to which the display device of this embodiment can be applied. Detailed Implementation

[0051] The embodiments disclosed in this specification will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Regardless of the drawing numbers, the same or similar reference numerals will be used for the same components, and repeated descriptions of them will be omitted. The suffixes "module" and "part" used for components in the following description are assigned or used interchangeably only for ease of writing and do not inherently distinguish one another. Furthermore, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, detailed descriptions of related well-known technologies will be omitted if it is determined that such detailed descriptions might obscure the main idea of ​​the embodiments disclosed in this specification. Additionally, the accompanying drawings are only for the purpose of facilitating understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification. The technical concepts disclosed in this specification are not limited by the drawings but should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, or substitutions within the scope and technical range of the present invention.

[0052] Terms such as "first," "second," etc., which include ordinal numbers, can be used to describe various constituent elements, but these constituent elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one constituent element from another.

[0053] When a component is referred to as being "connected" or "linked" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or linked to the other component, but there may also be other components in between. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly linked" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0054] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular expression includes the plural expression.

[0055] In this application, terms such as “comprising” or “having” should be understood as indicating the presence of features, figures, steps, actions, constituent elements, components or combinations thereof as described in the specification, but without precluding the presence or additional possibility of one or more other features or figures, steps, actions, constituent elements, components or combinations thereof.

[0056] Figure 1 This is a front perspective view showing a first state of the display device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is a front perspective view showing the second state of the display device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] The display device 10 of the present invention can be used to achieve a large screen in a limited space. The display device 10 of the present invention can be repositioned as needed, thereby placing it in a location that can improve space utilization. For example, the display device 10 of the present invention can be used as a dashboard panel located on the front of a vehicle.

[0058] The display device 10 of the present invention can be viewed from Figure 1The first state transition to Figure 2 The second state. When transitioning from the first state to the second state, the display unit 100 can switch to the second state while moving downwards. Figure 2 The bending deformation state shown.

[0059] The display unit 100 may include a display panel located on its front side and a rear structure covering the display unit 100 located on its back side. The display device 10 may include: a fixing unit 310 for fixing the display device 10 to a vehicle or a specific location (e.g., a dashboard); and a drive unit 330 and a moving unit attached to the rear structure of the display unit 100 to change the position and shape of the display unit 100.

[0060] The display panel can display graphic objects corresponding to various information. The display panel can include at least one of the following: liquid crystal display (LCD), thin film transistor-liquid crystal display (TFT LCD), organic light-emitting diode (OLED), flexible display, 3D display, and e-ink display. The display panel can be layered with or integrated with the touch input unit to realize a touchscreen.

[0061] In order to achieve such Figure 2 The bending deformation shown can be achieved using flexible displays such as organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). However, even with flexible display panels, it is difficult to maintain rigidity when bending deformation occurs in all areas; therefore, as... Figure 2 As shown, a portion of the interval is the variable part B that undergoes bending deformation, and planar parts F1 and F2 may be included on the upper and lower sides of the variable part B.

[0062] When the overall curvature of the display unit 100 changes, it is difficult to achieve [something related to...]. Figure 2 The diagram shows the combination of moving units 320 and 340 for deformation and positional changes of the display unit 100. Furthermore, due to the flexible structure, the degree of freedom in shape change is increased, making it possible to deform into unintended forms.

[0063] With the variable section B as a reference, the upper plane section F1 moves only in the vertical direction, while the lower plane section F2 moves downwards and protrudes obliquely forward. Since the upper plane section F1 and the lower plane section F2 move in different directions, the curvature of the variable section B located between the upper plane section F1 and the lower plane section F2 will change.

[0064] Figure 3 This is a rear perspective view showing a first state of the display device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 This is a rear view showing a first state of the display device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] A structure for changing the position and shape of the display section 100 and for mounting is provided on the back side of the display section 100 of the display device 10 of the present invention.

[0066] The structure mainly includes a fixing unit 310, a moving unit, and a drive unit 330. The fixing unit 310 is a component that fixes the display device 10 to a vehicle or the like, and the drive unit 330 is located in the fixing unit 310 and provides power to move the moving unit relative to the fixing unit 310.

[0067] The moving unit is a component that moves by receiving power from the drive unit 330. It is connected to the planar portions F1 and F2 of the display unit 100 and guides the movement and deformation of the display unit 100. The moving unit can mainly be composed of a linear moving unit 320 connected to the upper planar portion F1 and a curved moving unit 340 connected to the lower planar portion F2.

[0068] The linear movement unit 320 may include a moving plate 321, a first front support 322, a rear support 323, a first guide block 324, and a second guide block 325. The curved movement unit 340 may include a lower arm 341, an upper arm 342, guide protrusions 343 and 344, and a second front support 345.

[0069] The fixed unit 310 may include: a horizontal base 316 fixed to the bottom surface; and a vertical base 311 extending vertically from the horizontal base 316. The vertical base 311 may be formed with tracks 312, 314, and 315 for sliding the movable units 320 and 340, allowing the movable units 320 and 340 to move relative to the vertical base 311 and change the position of the display unit 100.

[0070] like Figure 3 As shown, the vertical base 311 can be arranged in pairs on the left and right, and correspondingly, the moving units 320 and 340 can also be arranged in pairs on the left and right. By using the moving units 320 and 340 arranged in pairs on the left and right, the display unit 100 can be moved stably without shaking.

[0071] The moving unit may include: a linear moving unit 320, which moves the upper plane portion F1 of the display portion 100 in a vertical direction; and a curved moving unit 340, which guides the lower plane portion F2 of the display portion 100 to protrude forward and move when it moves in a downward direction.

[0072] The linear moving unit 320 can move up and down along a linear track formed on the vertical base 311, and the curved moving unit 340 can move along a curved track.

[0073] The vertical base 311 may include a linear track extending in a vertical direction, and may include: a first linear track 314, such as... Figure 2 As shown, it is located in front of the vertical base 311; and the second linear track 315, as... Figure 3 The linear track is located on the back. While a single linear track can be provided on one side, it can be provided in pairs on the front and rear to support the weight of the display unit 100 and allow it to move without twisting.

[0074] The linear movement unit 320 may include: a first guide block 324 that moves along a first linear track 314 formed on a vertical base 311; and a second guide block 325 that moves along a second linear track 315.

[0075] The first guide block 324 can be fastened to the first front bracket 322, and the second guide block 325 can be fastened to the rear bracket 323. In order to enable the first guide block 324 and the second guide block 325 to move simultaneously, a movable plate 321 located between the first front bracket 322 and the rear bracket 323 can be provided.

[0076] like Figure 3 As shown, the movable plate 321 can be located inside each other in a direction opposite to the pair of vertical bases 311. The movable plate 321 can be configured to form a predetermined interval with the vertical bases 311.

[0077] Figure 5 This is a top view of the moving unit of the display device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The moving plate 321 is not directly connected to the linear tracks 314 and 315, but is connected by the first front bracket 322 and the rear bracket 323, and a space can be formed between the moving plate 321 and the vertical base 311.

[0078] like Figure 5 As shown, the curved moving unit 340 can be located between the vertical base 311 and the moving plate 321. The curved moving unit 340 may include a lower arm 341, the lower part of which is engaged with the back of the lower side planar portion F2 and extends in the upward direction. The lower part of the lower arm 341 is connected to the back of the lower side planar portion F2 by a second front bracket 345 ( Figure 3 It is combined with the lower flat part F2.

[0079] The curved movement unit 340 may also have an upper arm 342 disposed above the lower arm 341. The upper arm 342 may include guide protrusions 343 and 344 that move along the curved tracks 312 and 326.

[0080] The lower arm 341 can receive power from the drive unit 330 and push the lower flat portion F2 forward. As the guide protrusions 343 and 344 of the upper arm 342 move along the curved tracks 312 and 326, the movement path of the curved movement unit 340 can be set. The lower arm 341 may include a curved rack and pinion gear 341a located in the rear direction to receive power from the drive unit 330.

[0081] Figure 5 The fixed part may correspond to the fixed unit 310, and the moving part may include the moving units 320 and 340 and the display unit 100 that moves together with the moving units 320 and 340.

[0082] The drive unit 330, which provides power to the moving units 320 and 340, may include a motor 331 and a pinion gear 334 that transmits power to the motor 331. The motor 331 may be fixed to the horizontal base 316. Figure 3 As shown, in order to transmit force to the moving units 320, 340 arranged in pairs in a left-right symmetrical manner, a horizontal axis 333 may be included to transmit the power of a motor 331 to the left and right.

[0083] Setting two motors 331 increases component costs, and to synchronously drive a pair of moving units 320, 340, it is preferable to use only one motor 331. Figure 4 As shown, the motor 331 is located between a pair of vertical bases 311, the horizontal shaft 333 extends in the left and right direction, and small gears 334 are respectively connected to the ends.

[0084] In order to distribute the force of the motor 331 to a pair of horizontal shafts 333 and change the rotation direction of the motor 331, a plurality of gears can be used, and the gearbox 332 containing these gears can be located at the lower part of the motor 331.

[0085] The pinion 334 can mesh with the curved rack and pinion 341a formed in the lower arm 341 of the curved movement unit 340, and the curved rack and pinion 341a can draw a curve and move when the pinion 334 rotates. The back of the curved rack and pinion 341a protrudes in the back-to-back direction when the lower arm 341 is formed, so that the pinion 334 can draw a curved trajectory instead of a straight line and move when it rotates.

[0086] Figure 6This is a rear perspective view showing a second state of the display device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 This is a rear view of the second state of the display device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0087] If the drive unit 330 is activated and transitions from the first state to the second state, the curved movement unit 340 pushes the lower end of the display unit 100 forward, and the upper plane F1 and lower plane F2 of the display unit 100, which are combined with the linear movement unit 320, separate and move in the vertical direction, while their forward direction remains unchanged.

[0088] like Figure 7 As shown, the lower planar portion F2 of the display unit 100 can move further down to the horizontal base 316, and as... Figure 6 As shown, it can protrude forward. The variable part B can be curved, and the back structure of the display part located on the back of the variable part B can have a movable hinge 365 so that it can be bent and deformed in the vertical direction.

[0089] The movable hinge 365 can be formed by attaching individual strip members in the form of strip members arranged in the vertical direction and extending in the horizontal direction, or it can be achieved by forming a groove 3652 extending in the horizontal direction on the back of a flexible member.

[0090] The upper planar portion F1 and the lower planar portion F2 are guided and coupled to the moving units 320 and 340, but the shape of the variable portion B changes, making it difficult to install a bracket that is fastened to the moving units 320 and 340. The variable portion B is not coupled to the moving units 320 and 340, however, as... Figure 6 As shown, it can be secured to the side track 313 that guides the movement path, thereby moving along the predetermined curved track 312, 326.

[0091] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the back structure of the display section 100 of the display device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As described above, the display section 100 of the present invention may be composed of an upper planar section F1, a variable section B, and a lower planar section F2, and the rigid back plates 361 and 362 may be combined with the upper planar section F1 and the lower planar section F2.

[0092] The back plate can be divided into a first back plate 361 that is combined with the upper flat part F1 and a second back plate 362 that is combined with the lower flat part F2. The part corresponding to the variable part B can omit the solid back plate so that it can be bent and deformed, and a movable hinge 365 can be provided.

[0093] The back panels 361 and 362 may include extensions 361a and 362a extending toward the variable portion B. These extensions 361a and 362a are not coupled to the display portion 100, and therefore, in the second bent state of the variable portion B, they can be separated from the back surface of the display portion 100 (see reference). Figure 15 ).

[0094] The ends of the extension 361a of the first back plate 361 and the extension 362a of the second back plate 362 can meet in the middle of the variable portion so as not to overlap.

[0095] If the motor 331 is driven in the first state, when the curved movement unit 340 moves to the lower front, it is separated from the back of the display unit 100 starting from the upper end of the extension 362a of the second back plate 362 located at the lower part, and then the lower end of the extension 361a of the first back plate 361 is separated from the back of the display unit 100.

[0096] As the display unit 100 moves downward, the curved surface of the lower part of the variable unit B becomes a flat surface again, as... Figure 15 As shown, the distance between the second back panel 362 and the display panel 151 may become smaller.

[0097] The movable hinge 365 can be covered by extensions 361a and 362a, such as Figure 8 As shown, the hinge wing 368, which guides the movement path of the variable part B, can protrude from the back of the movable hinge 365.

[0098] The hinge wing 368 may be made of a metallic material to be rigid, and in order to fix the hinge wing 368 to the movable hinge 365, a wing fixing part 3681 covering the back of the movable hinge 365 may be included.

[0099] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing the side rail 313 and hinge wing 368 of the display device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. (a) is an enlarged view of the third guide protrusion 3683 inserted into the side rail 313, and (b) is a side view showing the second state.

[0100] like Figure 9 As shown in (a), the hinge wing 368 may include a third guide protrusion 3683, which is inserted into the side rail 313 in a manner that moves along the side rail 313 formed in the lateral direction of the vertical base 311.

[0101] like Figure 9As shown in (b), the upper side of the side track 313 is straight in the vertical direction, but may include a curve curving in the front direction on the lower side. In the first state, the third guide protrusion 3683 of the hinge wing 368 may be located in the upper straight section of the side track 313, but when transitioning to the second state, it may move into the curved section of the side track 313, and the lower part of the display section may be as follows: Figure 9 The convexity is shown in (b).

[0102] like Figure 8 As shown, the hinge wings 368 can be arranged symmetrically from left to right. In this case, the third guide protrusions 3683 can be arranged opposite each other.

[0103] The hinge wing 368 is made of rigid material, so the extensions 361a and 362a can be omitted in the part where the wing fixing part 3681 of the hinge wing 368 is located, and the extensions 361a and 362a are only provided between the hinge wings 368.

[0104] Figure 10 This is an exploded perspective view of the display panel 151 and its back structure of the display device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The display unit 100 may be composed of the display panel 151 and a movable hinge 365, a back plate 361, and a back plate 362 located on the back of the display panel 151. The movable hinge 365 may include: a front panel 367 for attachment to the display panel 151; and a non-elastic plate 366 covering the groove 3652 on the back of the movable hinge 365, and setting the limit for the curvature change of the variable part B.

[0105] As described above, the hinge wings 368 exposed to the outside can be located on the left and right sides of the back of the movable hinge 365, respectively. The portions overlapping with the extensions 361a and 362a of the back plate can be covered by the non-elastic plate 366.

[0106] A panel substrate 182 for controlling the driving of the display panel 151 can be provided at the lower part of the display panel 151. To connect the panel substrate 182 and the main substrate, as follows: Figure 8 As shown, the second back plate 362 may include an opening that exposes a portion of the panel substrate.

[0107] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating the movable hinge 365 of the display device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The movable hinge 365 may be configured to bend and deform using a member 3651 of an elastic material, and may have a predetermined thickness to have rigidity that supports the back of the flexible display panel 151.

[0108] However, if the hinge 365 is too thick, it will be difficult to bend and deform. Therefore, the hinge 365 can include a groove 3652 extending horizontally on the back side to facilitate bending and deformation towards the front. Figure 11 As shown, groove 3652 can be cut into a V-shape.

[0109] A plurality of grooves 3652 are arranged side by side along a vertical direction, and the cross-section between the grooves 3652 is trapezoidal. For the rigidity of the movable hinge 365, rigid ribs 3653 can be inserted between the plurality of grooves 3652. The rigid ribs 3653 may be made of metal. The rigid ribs 3653 can be inserted by forming grooves in the elastic member 3651 of the movable hinge 365, or they can be integrally formed with the elastic member 3651 by double injection molding.

[0110] The rigid rib 3653 can have a length corresponding to the horizontal length of the display panel 151, however, as Figure 11 As shown in (b), it can also be constructed by arranging a plurality of rigid ribs 3653 cut to a predetermined length along the horizontal direction. In this case, if the ends of the rigid ribs 3653 are arranged to be offset from the rigid ribs 3653 adjacent in the vertical direction, the degree of freedom of the length change in the vertical direction is increased, so that the bending deformation of the display panel 151 can be performed more smoothly.

[0111] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating the movable hinge 365, the front panel 367, and the non-elastic plate 366 of the display device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. (a) shows the first state in which the variable part B is planar, and (b) shows the second state in which the variable part B is curved and bent.

[0112] The hinge 365 has a specified thickness, and the radii of curvature of the front and back sides of the hinge 365 differ. The front side of the hinge 365 is connected to the display panel 151, therefore the length variation of the back side of the hinge 365 is significantly greater than the length variation of the front side of the hinge 365.

[0113] The front panel 367 can be bonded to the display panel 151, can be adhesive, and can be almost undeformed or only slightly expanded. Due to the large deformation that occurs at the movable hinge 365, the length variation of the non-elastic plate 366 located at the back should also be significant.

[0114] Therefore, the plate on the back of the movable hinge 365 can be made of a material with greater elasticity, but a non-elastic plate 366 of constant length can be used to limit the maximum bending deformation curvature.

[0115] like Figure 12 As shown in (b), the vertical length of the inelastic plate 366 is determined in accordance with the curvature of the second state, and it is tightly attached to the back of the movable hinge 365 in the state of bending of the variable part B.

[0116] At this point, the strip (rigid rib 3653) between the grooves 3652 can be attached without being bonded to the groove 3652 portion. As shown in (a), if the first state is switched, the width of the groove 3652 on the back side of the movable hinge 365 becomes narrower, so the portion of the non-elastic plate 366 corresponding to the unbonded groove 3652 bends and can protrude toward the back side (or enter into the grooves 3652) and form a fold.

[0117] When the system transitions to the second state again, even if a force is applied from the front and the curvature of the variable part B is deformed more, the inelastic plate 366 will not stretch, thus supporting the variable part B to prevent further bending.

[0118] Figure 13 This is a top view showing the moving units 320 and 340 of the display device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The vertical base 311 of the fixed unit 310, the moving plate 321 of the linear moving unit 320, the first front bracket 322, and the rear bracket 323 are shown. The curved moving unit 340 may include: a lower arm 341 with a curved rack and pinion gear 341a formed on its back side; and an upper arm 342 rotatably coupled to the upper side of the lower arm 341.

[0119] The curved moving unit 340 is located in the space between the moving plate 321 and the vertical base 311. Curved tracks 312 and 326 facing upward arm 342 are formed on both the vertical base 311 and the moving plate 321. The upper arm 342 of the curved moving unit 340 is simultaneously engaged with the vertical base 311 and the moving plate 321 by means of guide protrusions 343 and 344 protruding on both sides.

[0120] Figure 14 yes Figure 4 AA section view, Figure 15 yes Figure 7 A′-A′ sectional view. Figure 14 and Figure 15 This is a view taken from the outside of the movable plate 321. If the motor 331 drives and the pinion 334 rotates, the curved rack gear 341a is pushed forward and to the lower side, causing the lower flat portion F2 to... Figure 15 It protrudes forward and downward as shown.

[0121] The lower planar portion F2 moves downwards, therefore the variable portion B and the upper planar portion F1 are also pulled downwards, and as... Figure 15 As shown, the linear motion unit 320 can also move downwards.

[0122] Figure 16 yes Figure 4 BB sectional view, Figure 17 yes Figure 7 The B′-B′ sectional view. Figure 16 and Figure 17 This is a view of the upper arm 342 from the inside of the movable plate 321. It shows the upper arm 342 and a first curved track 312 formed on the vertical base 311. A first guide protrusion 343 formed on the upper arm 342 can be inserted into and moved along the first curved track 312. The first curved track 312 serves to guide the movement direction of the curved moving unit 340.

[0123] like Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, a pair of first curved tracks 312 can be arranged in the front-to-back direction, with the rear first curved track 312b located at the rear being longer than the front first curved track 312a located at the front. This is because the curved movement unit 340 draws and rotates the curve, so the rotation radius of the rear first guide protrusion 343b located at the end of the upper arm 342 is greater than the rotation radius of the front first guide protrusion 343a, resulting in a longer movement distance.

[0124] and Figure 16 Compared to the angle of the upper arm at 342 degrees, Figure 17 The upper arm 342 is tilted at an angle, and is located further down at the rear. The position of the lower end of the pair of first curved tracks 312 may also be different from the position of the upper end.

[0125] If the curved movement unit 340 moves downward and forward (①), the lower plane part F2 moves downward (②), and the variable part B and the upper plane part F1 also move downward (③). The driving force of the upper plane part F1 and the linear movement unit 320 is transmitted through the display part 100, thus applying a load to the display part 100, which may damage the display panel. In addition, when transitioning from the second state to the first state, the linear movement unit 320 needs to be pushed upward, so the transmission of the driving force of the motor 331 cannot be as smooth as when transitioning from the first state to the second state.

[0126] Therefore, a second curved track 326 can be formed on the movable plate 321, and a second guide protrusion 344 can be provided from the upper arm 342 into the second curved track 326 to transmit the driving force applied to the curved moving unit 340 to the linear moving unit 320 by directly fastening the curved moving unit 340 and the linear moving unit 320. The second guide protrusion 344 can be formed on the opposite side of the first guide protrusion 343.

[0127] Figures 18 to 20 This is a diagram illustrating the sliding motion of the linear movement unit 320 and the curved movement unit 340 of the display device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 18 yes Figure 4 CC section view, Figure 20 yes Figure 7C′-C′ sectional view, Figure 19 This is a cross-sectional view showing the linear movement unit 320 and the curved movement unit 340 at the intermediate position between the first state and the second state.

[0128] The upper arm 342, which is connected to the upper side of the lower arm 341, is fastened by the moving plate 321, the second guide protrusion 344, and the second curved track 326, which serve as a linear movement unit 320. Therefore, the upper arm 342 can transmit the force that pulls the moving plate 321 downward.

[0129] However, since the curved movement unit 340 draws a curve and moves, and the straight movement unit 320 moves in a straight line in the up and down direction, the second curved track 326 can be designed to counteract the horizontal movement of the curved movement unit 340 that is moving in a curved direction, and to transmit the vertical force to the moving plate 321.

[0130] like Figure 18 As shown, it may include a pair of second curved tracks 326, and may include a front second curved track 326a located in front and a rear second curved track 326b located in the rear. The second guide protrusion 344 formed on the upper arm 342 may also include a front second guide protrusion 344a that moves along the front second curved track 326a and a rear second guide protrusion 344b that moves along the rear second curved track 326b.

[0131] The curve-moving unit 340 rotates and moves, therefore, as... Figure 18 and Figure 20 As shown, the upper arm 342 tilts at different angles in the first and second states. In the second state, the curved movement unit 340 tilts forward and protrudes, therefore, compared to the first state, the upper arm 342 constituting the upper side of the curved movement unit 340 tilts more vertically.

[0132] Therefore, corresponding to the angle change of the upper arm 342, the angle of line B connecting the lower end of the front second curved track 326a and the lower end of the rear second curved track 326b is steeper than the angle of line A connecting the upper end of the front second curved track 326a and the upper end of the rear second curved track 326b.

[0133] Both the linear movement unit 320 and the curved movement unit 340 move vertically, but the upper and lower movement distances of the curved movement unit 340 are different. Compared to the linear movement unit 320, the lower vertical movement distance of the curved movement unit 340 is shorter, but it protrudes forward. Compared to the linear movement unit 320, the upper vertical movement distance of the curved movement unit 340 may be larger.

[0134] This is because the curved movement unit 340 uses the point of engagement with the pinion 334 as a reference, and performs both vertical and rotational movements, resulting in different vertical movement distances at its lower and upper ends.

[0135] Therefore, the second curved track 326 reflects the difference in the movement trajectories of the linear movement unit 320 and the curved movement unit 340 and has a convex shape facing the back. The first curved track 312 is formed on the vertical base 311 and has a longer length, but the second curved track 326 is formed on the moving plate 321 that moves in the vertical direction and has a shorter length than the first curved track 312.

[0136] The peak points P1 and P2 (or bending points) of the front second curved track 326a and the rear second curved track 326b protruding towards the back of the second curved track 326 are different. If the peak point P1 of the front second curved track 326a and the peak point P2 of the rear second curved track 326b are the same, the second guide protrusion 344 will change direction (turn to the front) when it reaches the peak points P1 and P2 and will be difficult to move.

[0137] When the rear second guide protrusion 344b reaches the peak of the rear second curved track 326b, the front second curved track 326a is still moving downward. Therefore, the rear second guide protrusion 344b can pass the peak point P2 in the rear second curved track 326b and move along the forward-inclined rear second curved track 326b.

[0138] like Figure 19 As shown, when the front second guide protrusion 344a reaches the peak point P1 of the front second curved track 326a, the upper arm 342 can move downward under the force of the rear second curved track 326b moving downward, and the front second guide protrusion 344a can continue to move downward along the front second curved track 326a.

[0139] Furthermore, the curvature of the front second curved track 326a is greater than that of the rear second curved track 326b, and the distance between its upper and lower ends is shorter. That is, the radius of curvature of the rear second curved track 326b is greater than that of the front second curved track 326a, and the length of the rear second curved track 326b is longer than that of the front second curved track 326a. This is because the movement trajectory of the upper arm 342 differs from the portion and end of its connection with the lower arm 341.

[0140] When the second guide protrusion 344 reaches the lower end of the second curved track 326, the first guide protrusion 343 also reaches the lower end of the first curved track 312 and transitions to the second state. In the second state, the angle of the upper arm 342 can be configured to be steeper than in the first state, and the lower arm 341 can be configured to protrude forward at an angle that is tilted from the vertical direction.

[0141] Conversely, when the display unit 100 moves upward in the opposite direction, the lower arm 341 moves upward and changes its angle, and the upper arm 342 can move along the second curved track 326 and push the moving plate 321 upward, so that the upper part of the display unit 100 moves upward.

[0142] As described above, the driving force of the curved movement unit 340 can be directly transmitted to the linear movement unit 320 through the second curved track 326 to guide the display unit 100 to move upward, thereby enabling more stable movement compared to the structure that transmits force from the display unit 100 to the linear movement unit 320.

[0143] The purpose of this invention is to provide a display device 10 whose position is variable, capable of being brought in or brought out, brought out when needed and retracted when not needed, thereby reducing the size of the exposed screen.

[0144] Furthermore, the shape of the display device 10 of the present invention can also be changed, thus having the advantage of being able to be introduced or led out even if the storage space and lead-out direction of the dashboard are inconsistent. The storage space in the dashboard can be formed to be recessed lower than the horizontal base of the fixing unit, so that the display device 10, which protrudes forward from the bottom, can be easily stored.

[0145] By using a moving unit that transmits the force of motor 331, the lower curved motion and upper linear motion of display unit 100 can be performed simultaneously using the force of motor 331.

[0146] Motor 331 can receive signals related to the vehicle's forward movement, reverse movement, parking, autonomous driving, etc. from the vehicle's detection unit, so that the display device 10 can maintain a first state or a second state.

[0147] Specifically, when the vehicle is moving forward, it can switch to the second state to avoid obstructing the driver's view, and it can maintain the second state when parked to prevent accidental damage to the display device 10. When driving autonomously, it can maintain the first state to provide navigation information and other information to passengers, including the driver, and it can maintain the first state when reversing to display a larger image of the rear view taken by the vehicle's rear camera on the display device 10.

[0148] The first or second state can be automatically changed by the motor receiving vehicle state-related signals from the detection unit, but it can also be manually changed by touching the input unit provided on the display device 10.

[0149] It remains rigid even when bent, thus enabling touch input and other functions, and ensuring durability by preventing deformation in the opposite direction.

[0150] Figure 21 This is a block diagram illustrating a vehicle to which the display device of the present invention can be applied.

[0151] Vehicle 1000 may include a user interface device 200. The user interface device 200 can receive user input and provide the user with information generated within the vehicle.

[0152] User interface device 200 may include an input unit 210, a built-in camera 220, a bio-detection unit 230, an output unit 250, and a processor 270.

[0153] The user interface device 200 may include a plurality of processors 270, or it may not include any processors 270. On the other hand, the user interface device 200 may operate according to the control of the control unit 170.

[0154] The display device of the present invention can operate in accordance with the user interface device 200 based on the input signal provided from the control unit 170 or at least one other device or unit in the vehicle.

[0155] The vehicle may also include a detection unit 120 capable of detecting various states of the vehicle. The detection unit 120 may include various types of sensors. The detection unit 120 can acquire detection signals related to vehicle information such as attitude, collision, direction, position (GPS information), angle, speed, acceleration, tilt, forward and reverse movement.

[0156] Input signals indicating the vehicle's status detected by the detection unit 120, such as motion, battery, fuel, tires, headlights, interior temperature, interior humidity, steering wheel rotation angle, external lighting, pressure applied to the accelerator pedal, and pressure applied to the brake pedal, can be provided to the display device.

[0157] The vehicle may also include a control unit 170. The control unit 170 may control a vehicle drive unit 600 that electrically controls the operation of various devices within the vehicle, or an operating system 700 that controls various driving modes of the vehicle.

[0158] Input signals representing the vehicle's status based on the actions of various devices within the vehicle and / or various driving modes of the vehicle can also be provided to the display device.

[0159] The form of the display device of the present invention can be changed according to the received input signal.

[0160] As an example, when the display device receives an input signal indicating that the vehicle is in use (e.g., the vehicle door is open, a person is sitting in the driver's seat, the vehicle's engine or motor is running, or the vehicle is moving), the display device may be bent; otherwise, the display device may be flat.

[0161] The display device changes its shape according to the vehicle's status, allowing users to easily and intuitively understand the vehicle's current condition. Furthermore, this curved shape provides the advantage of not obstructing the driver's forward view through the windshield.

[0162] In addition, specific areas within the screen of a curved display device can provide a convenient viewing angle for the driver. Therefore, the driver can effectively use the corresponding area to convey information about the current status of the vehicle with just a glance at the display device.

[0163] As another embodiment, the display device of the present invention can change its shape according to an input signal indicating a driving mode. For example, if the display device receives an input signal indicating that the vehicle is in manual mode, the display device can bend; otherwise (e.g., autonomous mode or assisted mode), the display device can flatten.

[0164] In manual mode, the driver needs to keep their eyes on the display while closely observing the road ahead through the windshield to quickly obtain driving information. Curved displays do not obstruct the driver's view, and specific areas of the curved display provide a more convenient viewing angle, making them potentially more advantageous in manual mode.

[0165] Conversely, if the display receives an input signal indicating that the vehicle is in manual mode, it can become flat; otherwise, it can bend. This flexibility also provides the advantage that the driver can quickly identify and respond to the change from autonomous or assisted mode to manual mode based on the shape of the display.

[0166] As another embodiment, the display device of the present invention can change its shape according to an input signal indicating the state of the gearbox. For example, if the display device receives an input signal indicating that the gearbox is in the "driving" (D) state, the display device can bend; otherwise, in the "reverse" (R) state, the display device can flatten. Partial deformation is also possible. As an example, the display device can bend when the gearbox is in the "parking" (P) or "reverse" (R) state. This alternative embodiment provides the advantage that the driver can quickly and intuitively perceive the state of the gearbox without having to look at a screen or gear selector that provides information about the gearbox's state.

[0167] The detailed description above should not be construed as limiting in all respects, but should be considered exemplary. The scope of the invention should be determined based on a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A display device, wherein, include: Fixed unit; The mobile unit is combined in a manner that allows it to move relative to the fixed unit, transitioning from a first state to a second state; as well as The display, combined with and moving together with the moving unit, forms a plane in the first state and can be changed to a curved surface in the second state. The fixing unit includes: Vertical base, extending in a vertical direction; and Side rails are formed on the front side of the vertical base, with their lower side protruding and extending in the frontal direction; The display includes: Flexible display panel; A movable hinge, located on the back of the flexible display panel, is capable of deforming in accordance with the bending deformation during the transition from the first state to the second state; Guide hinge wings protrude from the back of the movable hinge and move along the side rails; and The non-elastic plate, which is connected to the back of the movable hinge, does not have telescopic flexibility. The inelastic plate wrinkles in the first state and unfolds in the second state, thus limiting the curvature of the display.

2. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The movable hinge includes a plurality of grooves, which extend horizontally and are arranged side by side vertically on the back of the movable hinge. The wrinkles of the non-elastic plate are formed at positions corresponding to the grooves.

3. The display device according to claim 2, characterized in that, It includes a plurality of rigid ribs located between the plurality of said grooves and extending in a horizontal direction.

4. The display device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The rigid ribs are arranged in a plurality of spaces at predetermined intervals along the horizontal direction. The ends of adjacent rigid ribs in the vertical direction are configured to be staggered from each other.

5. The display device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The movable hinge contains an elastic material, and the groove has a V-shaped cross-section.

6. The display device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The guide hinge wings are arranged in a plurality of units in the vertical direction.

7. The display device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The vertical bases are arranged in pairs in the horizontal direction. The side rails are respectively formed on the side of each of the pair of vertical bases facing the display. The guide hinge wings are formed symmetrically from left to right and are coupled to the pair of side rails.

8. The display device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The display includes: The upper planar portion, located on the upper side, retains its constant curvature; The lower planar portion, located on the lower side, maintains its curvature; and A variable section is located between the upper planar section and the lower planar section, and the movable hinge is disposed in the variable section. And includes: A first back plate, which is coupled to the back of the upper planar portion; and The second back plate is attached to the back of the lower flat portion.

9. The display device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first back plate includes a first extension fixed to the upper planar portion and covering at least a portion of the movable hinge. The second back plate includes a second extension fixed to the lower planar portion and covering at least a portion of the movable hinge. The first extension and the second extension do not overlap.

10. The display device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The mobile unit includes: A linearly moving unit, which moves perpendicularly relative to the fixed unit, engages with the first back plate; and When the curve-moving unit transitions from the first state to the second state, it draws a curve relative to the fixed unit and protrudes forward and downward, engaging with the second back plate. In the first state, the display is in a planar state, while in the second state, the lower part of the display protrudes forward through the moving unit and is in a curved state with a changed curvature.

11. The display device according to claim 10, characterized in that, It also includes a drive unit that provides power to the curved movement unit. The curve-moving unit includes: The lower arm includes a curved rack and pinion gear that meshes with the pinion of the drive unit; and The upper arm, which connects to the upper end of the lower arm, provides power to the linear motion unit.

12. A display device, characterized in that, include: Fixed unit; The mobile unit is combined in a manner that allows it to move relative to the fixed unit, transitioning from a first state to a second state; as well as The display unit includes a variable section, which is coupled to and moves together with the moving unit. In a first state, it is in a planar state, and in a second state, it changes its curvature to a curved surface. The fixing unit includes: Vertical base, extending in a vertical direction; and The side track, formed on the front side of the vertical base, includes a straight section on the upper side and a curved section on the lower side that protrudes in the frontal direction. The display unit includes: Flexible display panel; A movable hinge, located on the back of the flexible display panel, is capable of deforming in response to the bending deformation of the variable portion; and The guide hinge wing protrudes from the back of the movable hinge and moves along the side track.

13. The display device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The guide hinge wings are arranged in a plurality of units in the vertical direction.

14. The display device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The vertical bases are arranged in pairs in the horizontal direction. The side rails are respectively formed on the side of each of the pair of vertical bases facing the display unit. The guide hinge wings are formed symmetrically from left to right and are coupled to the pair of side rails.

15. The display device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The display unit includes: The upper planar portion, located above the variable portion, has a constant curvature; and The lower planar portion, located below the variable portion, has a constant curvature. And includes: A first back plate, which is coupled to the back of the upper planar portion; and The second back plate is attached to the back of the lower flat portion.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Supports for dynamically bendable auto interior cover materials

    CN114007888A

  • Display apparatus

    KR1020150136810A

  • Mobile terminal

    KR1020160097034A

  • Mobile terminal

    KR1020170033626A