Folding portable display device

Abstract

Examples of a folding device include a first assembly having an inner surface and an outer surface; a second assembly having an inner surface and an outer surface; and a continuous display including: a first rigid segment attached to and coplanar with the inner surface of the first assembly, a second rigid segment attached to and coplanar with the inner surface of the second assembly, a main flexible segment; and a third rigid segment disposed between the second rigid segment and the main flexible segment, wherein the third rigid segment is articulatable relative to the second rigid segment.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 001,001, filed March 27, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to display devices, and more particularly to folding devices including foldable continuous displays. Background Technology

[0004] A device that includes a display can be called a display device. Typically, it may be desirable to increase the size of the display as much as possible (e.g., the area on which an image is displayed). However, increasing the size of the display can make the device, including the display, large and bulky. For example, a device with a large display may not fit in a pocket, bag, etc. One way to increase the size of the display without excessively increasing the device's size is to make the device collapsible so that the display can be folded (e.g., in half). Summary of the Invention

[0005] Typically, aspects of this disclosure relate to folding devices including a foldable continuous display. A folding device may include at least two components (e.g., a panel) and a mechanism configured to allow the components to move to a folded state where the device is considered closed and an unfolded state where the device is considered open. When the device is in the unfolded state, the display may be visible and may cover at least a portion of the inner surfaces of all components. Therefore, the device can be considered a continuous display (i.e., because it continuously spans the boundaries between the components). By utilizing such a folding device, the device can include a display with a relatively large length and / or width (e.g., display area) without excessively increasing the length and / or width of the device when in the folded state. This enhances the "pocket portability" of large-screen portable devices.

[0006] However, in some examples, the design of the mechanism that enables the components to move may introduce one or more disadvantages. As one example, while it may reduce the length and / or width of the device (e.g., relative to a non-foldable device with an equivalent screen size), incorporating the mechanism can increase the device's thickness. As another example, some mechanism designs may result in a relatively small bending radius for the display, which could lead to creases in the display. As yet another example, some designs may result in a large portion of the display being unsupported when the device is unfolded. As yet another example, the mechanism may be complex and expensive to manufacture.

[0007] According to one or more aspects of this disclosure, in contrast to two rigid segments connected by a single flexible segment, a continuous display of a folding device may include at least three rigid segments and a main flexible segment. For example, the continuous display may include: a first rigid segment spanning a majority of the width of a first component; a second rigid segment spanning a majority of the width of a second component; a third rigid segment spanning a majority of the width of the second component, and the third rigid segment is hinged relative to the second rigid segment (e.g., the third rigid segment is hinged relative to the second rigid segment); and a main flexible segment component connecting the display segment of the first component to the display segment of the second component. By including at least a plurality of rigid segments for the second component, the main flexible segment can maintain a large bending radius without having a large unsupported span.

[0008] In one example, the folding device includes: a first component having an inner surface and an outer surface; a second component having an inner surface and an outer surface; and a continuous display comprising: a first rigid segment attached to and coplanar with the inner surface of the first component; a second rigid segment attached to and coplanar with the inner surface of the second component; a main flexible segment; and a third rigid segment disposed between the second rigid segment and the main flexible segment, wherein the third rigid segment is hinged relative to the second rigid segment.

[0009] Details of one or more examples are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other features, objects, and advantages of this disclosure will be apparent from the description, the drawings, and the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of a folding device having a teardrop-shaped flexible display according to one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of a folding device with a U-shaped flexible display according to one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of a folding device having a flexible display with multiple rigid segments according to one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0013] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of a folding device having a flexible display with multiple rigid segments according to one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0014] Figure 5This is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of a folding device having a flexible display with multiple rigid segments according to one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a folding device with a flexible display according to one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0016] Figure 7A and Figure 7B This is a schematic diagram illustrating the hinge of a folding device with a flexible display according to one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0017] Figure 8A and Figure 8B This is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of a folding device having a flexible display with multiple rigid segments according to one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0018] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the hinge of a folding device with a flexible display according to one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0019] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the hinge of a folding device with a flexible display according to one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0020] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the hinge of a folding device with a flexible display according to one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0021] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the hinge of a folding device with a flexible display according to one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0022] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a folding device having a flexible display in multiple folded states, according to one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0023] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a folding device having a flexible display with a friction member according to one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0024] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a folding device having a flexible display with a support platform according to one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0025] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a folding device having a flexible display with a support platform according to one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0026] Figure 17This is a schematic diagram showing an exploded view of components of a folding device having a flexible display with a support platform according to one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0027] Figures 18A to 18K This is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of a folding device with a flexible display according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure, wherein the flexible display has a support platform in various positions.

[0028] Figure 19A and Figure 19B This is a schematic diagram showing the hinge mechanism and support platform of a folding device with a flexible display according to one or more aspects of this disclosure, including front and rear views.

[0029] Figure 20A and Figure 20B This is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of a folding device having a flexible display in an open and closed position, according to one or more aspects of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of a foldable device having a teardrop-shaped flexible display according to one or more aspects of this disclosure. Examples of device 100 include foldable mobile computing devices, such as foldable smartphones, foldable tablets, foldable e-readers, foldable gaming systems, or any other foldable portable device including a display.

[0031] like Figure 1 As shown, device 100 includes a first component 102, a second component 104, and a continuous display 106. The first component 102 and the second component 104 can be configured to rotate about a hinge point 116.

[0032] The continuous display 106 includes a first rigid segment 110 attached to a first component 102, a flexible segment 108, and a second rigid segment 112 attached to a second component 104. For example... Figure 1 As shown, when the device 100 is closed, the flexible section 108 forms a teardrop shape.

[0033] The teardrop shape of the flexible section 108 can provide a large bending radius, meaning fewer creases. However, when the device 100 is open, it may not support a long span of continuous display 106, which could cause ripples.

[0034] The design of device 100 theoretically maximizes the available internal volume (e.g., that of the first component 102 and the second component 104). This volume maximization allows for the addition of additional components and / or the use of larger components (e.g., it allows for a larger battery). However, the design of the continuous display 106 may require the use of rotation and sliding mechanisms, which can utilize some of the available volume. In particular, when device 100 is opened, the expansion of the flexible section 108 may require one or both of the first rigid section 110 and / or the second rigid section 112 to slide in the direction indicated by the arrow (e.g., to flatten the continuous display 106).

[0035] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of a foldable device with a U-shaped flexible display according to one or more aspects of this disclosure. Examples of device 200 include foldable mobile computing devices, such as foldable smartphones, foldable tablets, foldable e-readers, foldable gaming systems, or any other foldable portable device including a display.

[0036] like Figure 2 As shown, device 200 includes a first component 202, a second component 204, and a continuous display 206. The first component 202 and the second component 204 can be configured to rotate about a hinge point 216.

[0037] The continuous display 206 includes a first rigid segment 210 attached to the first component 202, a flexible segment 208, and a second rigid segment 212 attached to the second component 204. For example... Figure 2 As shown in the example, when the device 200 is closed, the flexible section 208 forms a U-shape.

[0038] The U-shape of the flexible section 208 can provide a tighter bending radius (e.g., with...). Figure 1 Compared to the teardrop shape of the flexible segment 108, this could result in visible creases. However, when the device 100 is turned on, the span of the unsupported continuous display 206 may be relatively short (e.g., compared to the unsupported span of the continuous display 106), which could result in minimal to no ripples.

[0039] Compared to the design of device 100, the design of device 200 may consume more internal volume (e.g., of the second component 204) to accommodate the continuous display 206. However, compared to device 100, device 200 may not require rotation and sliding mechanisms.

[0040] The designs of devices 100 and 200 (i.e., the teardrop-shaped flexible display and the U-shaped flexible display) may have one or more drawbacks. As an example, it may be impossible to reduce the device thickness (e.g., along the z-axis) using designs employing devices 100 and 200. For instance, it might be desirable for foldable devices to have a thickness of less than 10 millimeters.

[0041] According to one or more aspects of this disclosure, in contrast to two rigid segments connected by a single flexible segment, a continuous display of a folding device may include at least three rigid segments and a main flexible segment. For example, the continuous display may include: a first rigid segment spanning a majority of the width of a first component; a second rigid segment spanning a majority of the width of a second component; a third rigid segment spanning a majority of the width of the second component, and the third rigid segment is hinged relative to the second rigid segment (e.g., the third rigid segment is hinged relative to the second rigid segment); and a main flexible segment connecting the display segment of the first component to the display segment of the second component. By including at least a plurality of rigid segments for the second component, the main flexible segment can maintain a large bending radius without having a large unsupported span.

[0042] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of a foldable device having a flexible display with multiple rigid segments according to one or more aspects of this disclosure. Examples of device 300 include foldable mobile computing devices, such as foldable smartphones, foldable tablets, foldable e-readers, foldable gaming systems, or any other foldable portable device including a foldable display.

[0043] like Figure 3 As shown, device 300 includes a first component 302, a second component 304, a continuous display 306, and a hinge assembly 322. The first component 302 may be configured to rotate about a first axis 316A, which defines a first axis in the y-direction, and the second component 304 may be configured to rotate about a second axis 316B, which defines a second axis in the y-direction. Each of the first component 302 and the second component 304 may include an inner surface and an outer surface. The outer surface of the first component 302 may be visible when the device 300 is viewed downwards along the z-axis, while the outer surface of the second component 304 may be visible when the device 300 is viewed upwards along the z-axis. When the device 300 is closed, the inner surfaces of the first component 302 and the second component 304 are not visible from the outside.

[0044] like Figure 3As shown, the first component 302 may include a main logic board 334 and the second component 304 may include a battery 336. This is merely an example of the component arrangement in the first component 302 / second component 304, and other arrangements are possible. For example, both the first component 302 and the second component 304 may include their respective batteries.

[0045] The continuous display 306 may be able to render data into an image that can be viewed by a user of device 300. For example, the continuous display 306 may include an individually controllable pixel matrix. Examples of the continuous display 306 include, but are not limited to, liquid crystal displays (LCDs), light-emitting diode (LED) displays, organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays, micro LED displays, or similar monochrome or color displays capable of outputting visible information to a user of device 300.

[0046] In some examples, device 300 may include one or more displays in addition to continuous display 306. For example, as Figure 3 As shown, device 300 may include a first additional display (e.g., display 398) on the outer surface of the first component 302. In some examples, device 300 may also include a second additional display on the outer surface of the second component 304.

[0047] One or more of the continuous display 306, the first additional display, and / or the second additional display may be presence-sensitive displays. In some examples, the presence-sensitive display can detect objects at and / or near the screen. As an example, the presence-sensitive display can detect objects, such as a finger or stylus within 2 inches or less of the screen. The presence-sensitive display can determine the screen location of the detected object (e.g., (x, y) coordinates). In another example, the presence-sensitive display can detect objects six inches or less from the screen, and other ranges are possible. The presence-sensitive display can use capacitive, inductive, and / or optical recognition technologies to determine the location of the screen selected by the user's finger. In some examples, the presence-sensitive display also uses tactile, audio, or video stimuli to provide output to the user.

[0048] The continuous display 306 includes: a first rigid segment 310 attached to a first component 302 (e.g., positioned on and coplanar with the inner surface of the first component 302); a flexible segment 308; and a second rigid segment 312 attached to a second component 304 (e.g., positioned on and coplanar with the inner surface of the first component 302). Figure 3As can be seen in the example, the flexible section 308 also includes rigid sections 324 and 326, wherein rigid section 324 connects rigid section 310 to the flexible section 308, and rigid section 326 connects rigid section 312 to the flexible section 308. When the device 300 is fully open, rigid section 324 may be coplanar with the inner surface of the first component 302, and rigid section 326 may be coplanar with the inner surface of the second component 304. However, when the device 300 is fully closed, rigid section 324 may not be coplanar with the inner surface of the first component 302, and rigid section 326 may not be coplanar with the inner surface of the second component 304. Rigid section 324 may be hinged relative to rigid section 310 at hinge point 330. Rigid section 326 may be hinged relative to rigid section 312 at hinge point 332.

[0049] Rigid segments 310 and 312 may be referred to as primary rigid segments, while rigid segments 324 and 326 may be referred to as secondary rigid segments. In some examples, the width of the primary rigid segment (e.g., in the x-direction) may be significantly greater than the width of the secondary rigid segment. For example, the width of rigid segment 324 may be less than or equal to one-quarter (25%) of the width of rigid segment 310. Similarly, the width of rigid segment 326 may be less than or equal to one-quarter (25%) of the width of rigid segment 312.

[0050] The secondary rigid segment can be hinged relative to the adjacent primary rigid segment. As an example, rigid segment 324 can be hinged relative to rigid segment 310 at hinge point 330. As another example, rigid segment 326 can be hinged relative to rigid segment 312 at hinge point 332. In some examples, the hinge points (e.g., hinge points 330 and 332) between the secondary and primary rigid segments can have a larger radius and limited movement compared to the radius and movement of the primary flexible segment 308. As an example, rigid segment 324 can be configured to be hinged at most 45 degrees relative to rigid segment 310. As another example, rigid segment 326 can be configured to be hinged at most 45 degrees relative to rigid segment 312.

[0051] The main flexible section 308 can connect a rigid section on one side of the equipment 300 to a rigid section on the other side of the equipment 300. For example, as Figure 3 As shown, the main flexible section 308 can connect the rigid section 324 to the rigid section 326. The main flexible section 308 can be configured to fold at least 180 degrees (e.g., to facilitate the closure of the device 300).

[0052] In some examples, device 300 may include one or more support plates (e.g., backerplates) configured to make the rendering segments of the continuous display 306 flexible or rigid. The support plates may be positioned between the emitting elements of the continuous display 306 (e.g., OLED) and the inner surfaces of the first component 302 and the second component 304.

[0053] In some examples, device 300 may include corresponding support plates for segments of continuous display 306. For example, the one or more support plates may include a first support plate attached to a first rigid segment 310, a second support plate attached to a second rigid segment 312, a third support plate attached to a rigid segment 324, and / or a fourth support plate attached to a rigid segment 326.

[0054] In some examples, the one or more support plates may include respective support plates for each of the first component 302 and the second component 304, the support plates supporting segments of the continuous display 306 on their respective components. For example, the one or more support plates may include: a first support plate attached to first rigid segments 310 and 324, the first support plate being configured to allow bending between the first rigid segments 310 and 324; and a second support plate attached to second rigid segments 312 and 326, the second support plate being configured to allow bending between the second rigid segments 312 and 326.

[0055] In some examples, the one or more support plates may include a single support plate attached to a segment of the continuous display 306 on the first component 302 and the second component 304. For example, the one or more support plates may include a single support plate attached to the main flexible segment 308 and all the main rigid segments and secondary rigid segments (e.g., the first rigid segment 310, the second rigid segment 312, the rigid segment 324, and the rigid segment 326). The single support plate may be configured to allow bending between segments. To allow bending between segments, the support plate may be etched and / or perforated at the boundaries between adjacent segments.

[0056] As described above, the display 306 may include at least two primary rigid sections and at least one secondary rigid section. Figure 4 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a folding device having a multi-rigid-segment flexible display including a single sub-rigid segment, according to one or more aspects of this disclosure. Figure 4 As shown, the display 306 may include main rigid sections 310 and 312, main flexible section 308, and secondary rigid section 324. Figure 5This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a folding device having a multi-rigid-segment flexible display comprising multiple sub-rigid segments according to one or more aspects of this disclosure. Figure 5 As shown, the display 306 may include main rigid sections 310 and 312, main flexible section 308, and secondary rigid sections 324 and 326.

[0057] In some examples, hinge assembly 322 may include a cavity into which at least a portion of display 306 can retract when device 300 is fully closed. For example, as discussed in further detail below, the central region of hinge assembly 322 may be "hollowed out" to receive at least a portion of main flexible segment 308. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, when the folding device 300 is fully closed, the apex of the main flexible segment (e.g., apex 309 of the main flexible segment 308) is closer to the outer surface of the hinge assembly (e.g., the outer surface 323 of the hinge assembly 322) than a plane parallel to the first and second axes (e.g., plane 350 parallel to the first axis 316A and the second axis 316B). By allowing at least a portion of the display 306 to retract when the device 300 is fully closed, the device 300 avoids the need for rotation and sliding mechanisms (e.g., as shown in the diagram). Figure 1 (The device used in device 100). In this way, the design of foldable display devices can be simplified.

[0058] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a folding device with a flexible display according to one or more aspects of this disclosure. Figure 6 As shown, hinge assembly 322 may include a top hinge region 352, a center hinge region 354, and a bottom hinge region 356 (note that the terms top and bottom are for reference only, and regions 352 and 356 may represent any relative regions of hinge assembly 322, such as left and right regions). Display 306 is shown with a transparent perimeter.

[0059] As described above, the hinge assembly 322 may include a cavity into which at least a portion of the display 306 can retract when the device 300 is fully closed. For example, the central hinge region 354 may include such a cavity. By including such a cavity in the hinge assembly 322, mechanical components connected to the first assembly 302 and the second assembly 304 can be moved.

[0060] According to one or more aspects of this disclosure, device 300 can extend in a direction parallel to the hinge folding axis (e.g., device 300 can be stretched along the y-axis). In such a design, the mechanical parts connecting hinge assembly 322 to the first assembly 302 and the second assembly 304 can be moved to one or both of the top hinge region 352 and / or the bottom hinge region 356. Therefore, the first assembly 302 and the second assembly 304 can each be rotatably connected to the top hinge region 352 and the bottom hinge region 356, respectively. Due to this arrangement, in some examples, the mechanical parts connecting hinge assembly 322 to the first assembly 302 and the second assembly 304 may not be located below the display 306 (e.g., along the z-axis). For example, the mechanical parts connecting hinge assembly 322 to the first assembly 302 and the second assembly 304 may be located below the top bezel 353 and / or below the bottom bezel 357. Figure 6 As shown, the top bezel 353 and the bottom bezel 357 can be connected to the display 306.

[0061] Figure 7A and Figure 7B This is a schematic diagram illustrating the hinge of a folding device with a flexible display according to one or more aspects of this disclosure. Figure 7A Further details of an example of the top hinge area 352 are shown. Figure 7B Further details of an example of the bottom hinge area 356 are shown.

[0062] In some examples, it may be desirable for the first component 302 and the second component 304 to maintain similar or identical rotation angles relative to the hinge assembly 322. According to one or more aspects of this disclosure, one or both of the top hinge region 352 and / or the bottom hinge region 356 may include a synchronization component configured to match rotation of the first component 302 about a first axis 316A with rotation of the second component 304 about a second axis 316B. As an example, the top hinge region 352 may include a synchronization component 360A. As another example, the bottom hinge region 356 may include a synchronization component 360B. Synchronization components 360A and 360B (collectively, “synchronization component 360”) may be any mechanical component (e.g., a component that causes the device 300 to open symmetrically) that synchronizes the rotation of the first component 302 and the second component 304. For example, synchronization component 360 may each include a first gear connected to the first component and rotating about a first axis, a second gear connected to the second component and rotating about a second axis, and two or more intermediate gears connecting the first gear to the second gear.

[0063] In some examples, it may be desirable to hold the first component 302 and the second component 304 in one position. For example, it may be desirable to increase the amount of force required to rotate the first component 302 and the second component 304 (e.g., the amount of force required to open / close the device 300). According to one or more aspects of this disclosure, the hinge assembly 322 may include one or more resistance members configured to increase the amount of force required to rotate the first component 302 and the second component 304. For example, the top hinge region 352 may include a friction sleeve 362 that increases the amount of force required to rotate the first component 302 about a first axis 316A and / or increases the amount of force required to rotate the second component 304 about a second axis 316B.

[0064] In some examples, the synchronization component 360 may be considered to be included in the mechanical component that connects the hinge assembly 322 to the first assembly 302 and the second assembly 304. As mentioned above, the mechanical component may not be located below the display 306.

[0065] Figure 8A and Figure 8B This is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of a folding device having a flexible display with multiple rigid segments according to one or more aspects of this disclosure. Figure 8A As shown, the central hinge region 354 includes a gap (e.g., a notch, cavity, etc.) to receive at least a portion of the display 306 when the device 300 is closed. Figure 8A and Figure 8B As shown, the central hinge region 354 includes an outer surface 323 and an inner surface 325. (As...) Figure 8B As shown, when device 300 is open, inner surface 325 can support a portion of display 306 (e.g., the rear surface of main flexible segment 308). By using inner surface 325 to provide support for display 306 when device 300 is open, ripples in display 306 can be minimized or eliminated.

[0066] like Figure 8A As illustrated in (and other) examples, when device 300 is fully closed, the first rigid segment 310 may be parallel to the second rigid segment. Additionally or alternatively, when device 300 is fully closed, the outer surface of the first component 302 may be parallel to the outer surface of the second component 304. This parallelization is possible due to various design features of device 300. As an example, when device 300 is fully closed, this parallelization can be facilitated by allowing the apex of the main flexible segment of display 306 to be closer to the outer surface 323 of hinge assembly 322 than a plane (e.g., plane 350) parallel to the first axis 316A and the second axis 316B.

[0067] Figure 9This is a schematic diagram illustrating the hinge of a folding device with a flexible display according to one or more aspects of this disclosure. Figure 9 As shown, the top hinge region 352 may include a rotary hinge member 361A attached to the first component 302 and rotating about a first axis 316A, and a rotary hinge member 361B attached to the second component 304 and rotating about a second axis 316B. The bottom hinge region 356 may include similar rotary hinge members.

[0068] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the hinge of a folding device with a flexible display according to one or more aspects of this disclosure. Figure 10 As shown, the top hinge region 352 may include corresponding pins / rods / shafts on each of the first axis 316A and the second axis 316B that connect the rotary hinge member, the friction sleeve 362 and the synchronization member 360A.

[0069] As described above, device 300 may include one or more support plates attached to display 306. For example, such as Figure 10 As shown, device 300 may include support plates 390A and 390B. Although shown as two discrete plates, as mentioned above, the one or more support plates may be a single plate with etched / perforated areas that allow the plate with display 306 to be folded (e.g., as shown in the diagram). Figure 18K (as shown in the image).

[0070] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the hinge of a folding device with a flexible display according to one or more aspects of this disclosure. In particular, Figure 11 This is a cross-section of the synchronization component 360A in the top hinge region 352. For example... Figure 11 As shown, the synchronization component 360A causes the first component 302 and the second component 304 to rotate symmetrically about the first axis 316A and the second axis 316B.

[0071] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the hinge of a folding device with a flexible display according to one or more aspects of this disclosure. In particular, Figure 12 This is the cross-section of the friction sleeve 362 in the top hinge region 352. For example... Figure 12 As shown, the friction sleeve 362 can increase the amount of force required to rotate the first component 302 about the first axis 316A, and increase the amount of force required to rotate the second component 304 about the second axis 316B.

[0072] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a folding device having a flexible display in multiple folded states, according to one or more aspects of this disclosure. Figure 13As shown, when device 300 is closed, at least a portion of the main flexible section 308 of display 306 resides within hinge assembly 322. Also as... Figure 13 As shown, when the device 300 is fully opened, the inner surface of the first component 302 is coplanar with the inner surface of the second component 304.

[0073] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a folding device with a flexible display having a friction member according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. As described above, in some examples, device 300 may include a friction sleeve 362 that increases the amount of force required to rotate the first component 302 about a first axis 316A and / or increases the amount of force required to rotate the second component 304 about a second axis 316B. In some examples, instead of including the friction sleeve 362, device 300 may include other components to increase the amount of force required to rotate the first component 302 about the first axis 316A and / or increase the amount of force required to rotate the second component 304 about the second axis 316B. For example, as Figure 14 As shown, device 300 may include a spring-loaded shaft 363A within a rotary hinge member 361A, the spring-loaded shaft 363A being configured to increase the amount of force required to rotate the first component 302 about a first axis 316A. Similarly, device 300 may include a spring-loaded shaft 363B within a rotary hinge member 361B, the spring-loaded shaft 363A being configured to increase the amount of force required to rotate the second component 304 about a second axis 316B. Each of spring-loaded shafts 363A and 363B may include a spring oriented perpendicular to the axis of rotation. By including a resistance element (e.g., a spring-loaded shaft) in the rotary hinge member, the length of the hinge assembly (e.g., hinge assembly 322) can be reduced. In this way, the dimensions of the top frame 353 (e.g., its length in the y-axis) can be reduced.

[0074] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a folding device with a flexible display and a support platform according to one or more aspects of this disclosure. As mentioned above, it may be necessary to support the display 306 for a certain span (e.g., to reduce ripples). Figure 15 As shown, the support can be provided by support plates 390A and 390B, which can be attached to the display 306.

[0075] In addition to or in place of support plates 390A and 390B, device 300 may include one or more foldable support platforms that support display 306 when device 300 is opened. Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a folding device having a flexible display with a folding support platform according to one or more aspects of this disclosure. Figure 16 As shown, device 300 may include a first folding support platform 395A, which is attached to a first component 302 and configured to support a continuous display 306 when device 300 is fully open. Similarly, device 300 may include a second folding support platform 395B, which is attached to a second component 304 and configured to support display 306 when device 300 is fully open. When device 300 is closed, folding support platforms 395A and 395B can fold downwards to allow a portion of display 306 to reside within hinge assembly 322.

[0076] Figure 17 This is a schematic exploded view illustrating components of a folding device having a flexible display with a support platform according to one or more aspects of this disclosure. As described above, the folding device may include one or more foldable support platforms supporting the display of the folding device 300. Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, device 300 may include foldable support platforms 395A and 395B for supporting display 306 (e.g., at least when device 300 is fully open).

[0077] Figure 17 Foldable support platforms 1704A and 1704B (collectively, “Foldable Support Platform 1704”) can be considered examples of foldable support platforms 395A and 395B. For example, foldable support platform 1704A may be included in first component 302 and may support a portion of continuous display 306 (e.g., secondary rigid segment 324 and / or at least a portion of main flexible segment 308) when device 300 is fully opened. Similarly, foldable support platform 1704B may be included in second component 304 and may support a portion of continuous display 306 (e.g., secondary rigid segment 326 and / or at least a portion of main flexible segment 308) when device 300 is fully opened.

[0078] Folding devices, such as device 300, may include a component 1702 configured to actuate a folding support platform 1704. For example, when device 300 moves from a fully closed state to a fully open state, component 1702 can unfold the folding support platform 1704. Similarly, when device 300 moves from a fully open state to a fully closed state, component 1702 can retract the folding support platform 1704. Thus, when device 300 is closed, component 1702 allows the folding support platform 1704 to be moved away, allowing a portion of display 306 to reside within a hinge assembly (such as hinge assembly 322).

[0079] like Figure 17As shown in the example, component 1702 may include a shaft clamp 1706, lever arms 1708A and 1708B (collectively referred to as "lever arms 1708"), lever knobs 1710A and 1710B (collectively referred to as "lever knobs 1710"), a clamp stop 1712, an auxiliary gear 1714, a cover bracket 1716, and movable arm assemblies 1718A and 1718B (collectively referred to as "moving arm assemblies 1718"). Figure 17 As shown, each of the movable arm assemblies 1718 may include a pin on which other components may be mounted. For example, movable arm assembly 1718A may include pin 1722A, on which at least lever knob 1710A and lever arm 1708A may be mounted, and movable arm assembly 1718B may include pin 1722B, on which at least lever knob 1710B and lever arm 1708B may be mounted. Pin 1722A may be centered on a first axis (such as first axis 316A). Pin 1722B may be centered on a second axis (such as second axis 316B).

[0080] As discussed below and shown in the figures, when device 300 moves between the open and closed positions, the lever knobs 1710 can remain fixed on their respective axes. For example, as Figure 17 As shown, the external geometry of pin 1722A and the internal geometry of lever knob 1710A prevent lever knob 1710A from rotating about pin 1722A. Similarly, the external geometry of pin 1722B and the internal geometry of lever knob 1710B prevent lever knob 1710B from rotating about pin 1722B. Since pin 1722 is attached to the first component and the second component respectively (e.g., via moving arm assembly 1718), this arrangement allows lever knob 1710 to rotate synchronously with the first component and the second component respectively.

[0081] At a point during the transition from closed to open (e.g., 155 degrees), the attachment to the lever knob 1710 can cause the lever arm 1708 to rotate. Rotation of the lever arm 1708 can cause the folding support platform 1704 to unfold. For example, rotation of the lever arm 1708A can push the folding support platform 1704B upwards toward the rear surface of the display 306. Similarly, rotation of the lever arm 1708B can push the folding support platform 1704A upwards toward the rear surface of the display 306.

[0082] Therefore, lever knob 1710A can be a first lever knob fixed on a first axis (e.g., first axis 316A), the first lever knob including an attachment configured to engage a first lever arm (e.g., lever arm 1708A) and rotate the first lever arm at a specific point in the transition of the folding device from fully closed to fully open. Similarly, lever knob 1710B can be a second lever knob fixed on a second axis (e.g., second axis 316B), the second lever knob including an attachment configured to engage a second lever arm (e.g., lever arm 1708B) and rotate the second lever arm at a specific point in the transition of the folding device from fully closed to fully open. Furthermore, lever arm 1708A can be a first lever arm that pushes a second folding support platform (e.g., folding support platform 1704B) toward the rear surface of a continuous display (e.g., display 308) at a specific point in the transition of the folding device from fully closed to fully open. Alternatively, lever arm 1708B may be a second lever arm that pushes the first folding support platform (e.g., folding support platform 1704A) toward the rear surface of the continuous display (e.g., display 308) at a specific point in the transition of the folding device from fully closed to fully open.

[0083] like Figure 17 As shown, each folding support platform 1704 may include a pin configured to engage with a hole in the movable arm assembly of the movable arm assembly 1718. For example, folding support platform 1704A may include pin 1722A configured to engage with hole 1720A in movable arm assembly 1718A. Similarly, folding support platform 1704B may include pin 1722B configured to engage with hole 1720B in movable arm assembly 1718B. Although Figure 17 Only one end of the folding support platform 1704 is shown, but it is understood that the other ends of the folding support platform 1704 may include pins similar to pin 1704.

[0084] When pushed by lever arm 1708, the folding support platform 1704 can be configured to rotate about pin 1722. For example, to push the folding support platform 1704A towards the rear surface of the display, lever arm 1708B can rotate the folding support platform 1704A about pin 1722A. Similarly, to push the folding support platform 1704B towards the rear surface of the display, lever arm 1708A can rotate the folding support platform 1704B about pin 1722B.

[0085] Figures 18A to 18KThis is a schematic cross-section of a folding device with a flexible display according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure, wherein the flexible display has a support platform in various positions. The folding device 1800 may be an example of the device 300 as described above. Figure 18A The folding device 1800 is shown in its fully closed position. Figures 18B to 18J The folding device is shown in several intermediate positions, while Figure 18K A folding device in its fully closed position is shown. Folding support platforms 1804A and 1804B and lever arms 1808A and 1808B can be examples of folding support platform 1704 and lever arm 1708. Similarly, display 1850, first component 1840, second component 1842, hinge assembly 1844, and support plate 1852 can be examples of display 306, first component 302, second component 304, hinge assembly 322, and support plate 390.

[0086] If possible Figures 18A to 18K As can be seen, when device 1800 moves from the fully closed position ( Figure 18A Move to the fully open position. Figure 18K When the lever arm 1808 is in operation, it can push the folding support platform 1804 upward against the bottom surface of the support plate 1852. Therefore, the support provided by the folding support platform 1804 can provide additional resistance to the deflection of the display 1850. Due to the folding support platform 1804, if a user moves their fingers on the main flexible section of the display 1850, it may not cause the display 1850 to deflect downward; for example, the user may not feel a noticeable bulge.

[0087] In some examples, the foldable support platform 1804 can be supported at both ends when unfolded. For example, as... Figure 18K As shown, the distal point of the folding support platform 1804 (e.g., furthest from the hinge assembly 1844) can be supported by the inner surfaces of the first assembly 1840 and the second assembly 1842, respectively. Similarly, the proximal point of the folding support platform 1804 (e.g., closest to the hinge assembly 1844) can be supported by lever arms 1808A and 1808B, respectively.

[0088] In some examples, foldable support platforms 1904A and 1904B can be adhered to the bottom surface of support plate 1852. For example, an adhesive (e.g., glue) can be used to attach foldable support platforms 1904A and 1904B to the bottom surface of support plate 1852.

[0089] Figure 19A and Figure 19BThis is a schematic diagram showing the front and rear views of the hinge mechanism and support platform of a folding device with a flexible display according to one or more aspects of this disclosure. The top hinge region 1980, bottom hinge region 1982, center hinge region 1984, and folding support platforms 1904A and 1904B can be examples of the top hinge region 352, bottom hinge region 356, center hinge region 354, and folding support platforms 1804A and 1804B. Figure 19A As shown, the bottom of the folding support platforms 1904A and 1904B can be hollow (e.g., to reduce weight). Figure 19B As shown, the tops of the folding support platforms 1904A and 1904B can be flat (e.g., to smoothly engage the bottom of the support plate 1852).

[0090] Figure 20A and Figure 20B This is a schematic cross-section of a folding device having a flexible display in an open and closed position according to one or more aspects of this disclosure. Device 2000 may be an example of device 1800. First component 2040, second component 2042 and hinge component 2044 may be examples of first component 1840, second component 1842 and hinge component 1844.

[0091] In some examples, the outer surface of the hinge assembly 2044 can be flat. For example, as shown... Figure 4 As shown, the outer surface 323 of the hinge assembly 322 can be flat. In some examples, the outer surface 2046 of the hinge assembly 2044 can be curved (e.g., as shown). Figure 20A and Figure 20B (As shown). When the outer surface 2046 of the hinge assembly 2044 is curved, portions of the first assembly 2040 and the second assembly 2042 can be tapered to form a smooth structure where the device 2000 is closed, such as... Figure 20A As shown.

[0092] The following numbered examples illustrate one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0093] Various aspects have been described in this disclosure. These and other aspects are within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A folding device, comprising: A first component, the first component having an inner surface and an outer surface; The second component has an inner surface and an outer surface; A hinge assembly connected to the first component and the second component; as well as A continuous display, the continuous display comprising: A first rigid section is attached to and coplanar with the inner surface of the first component. A second rigid section is attached to and coplanar with the inner surface of the second component. Main flexible section; and A third rigid section is disposed between the second rigid section and the main flexible section, wherein the third rigid section is hinged relative to the second rigid section; A first folding support platform, attached to the first component and configured to support the continuous display when the folding device is fully open, wherein the first folding support platform is not attached to the continuous display, and wherein, when the folding device is fully closed, at least a portion of the first folding support platform adjacent to the hinge component does not support the continuous display; and A second folding support platform, attached to the second component and configured to support the continuous display when the folding device is fully open, wherein the second folding support platform is not attached to the continuous display, and wherein, when the folding device is fully closed, at least a portion of the second folding support platform adjacent to the hinge assembly does not support the continuous display. Wherein, the first component is rotatably connected to the hinge assembly about a first axis, and the second component is rotatably connected to the hinge assembly about a second axis. When the folding device is fully opened around the hinge assembly, the inner surface of the first assembly is coplanar with the inner surface of the second assembly, and when the folding device is fully closed, the vertex of the main flexible segment is closer to the outer surface of the hinge assembly than a plane parallel to the first and second axes.

2. The folding device according to claim 1, wherein, The continuous display further includes a fourth rigid section disposed between the first rigid section and the main flexible section, wherein the fourth rigid section is hinged relative to the first rigid section.

3. The folding device according to claim 2, wherein, The width of the third rigid segment is less than 25% of the width of the second rigid segment, and the width of the fourth rigid segment is less than 25% of the width of the first rigid segment.

4. The folding device according to claim 1, wherein, The main flexible section is configured to fold at least 180 degrees.

5. The folding device according to claim 2, wherein, The third rigid section is configured to be hinged at a maximum of 45 degrees relative to the second rigid section, and wherein the fourth rigid section is configured to be hinged at a maximum of 45 degrees relative to the first rigid section.

6. The folding device of claim 1, further comprising one or more support plates attached to the continuous display.

7. The folding device according to claim 6, wherein, The one or more support plates include a single support plate attached to the main flexible segment, the first rigid segment, the second rigid segment, and the third rigid segment, wherein the single support plate is configured to allow bending between the segments.

8. The folding device according to claim 7, wherein, To allow bending between sections, the individual support plates are etched and / or perforated at the boundaries between adjacent sections.

9. The folding device according to claim 1, wherein, The hinge assembly includes an outer surface and an inner surface, wherein the hinge assembly includes a top hinge region, a central hinge region and a bottom hinge region, wherein when the folding device is fully closed, at least a portion of the main flexible segment resides in the central hinge region, and wherein the first component and the second component are each rotatably connected to the top hinge region and the bottom hinge region.

10. The folding device according to claim 9, wherein, The hinge assembly further includes one or more synchronization components configured to match rotation of the first assembly about the first axis with rotation of the second assembly about the second axis.

11. The folding device according to claim 10, wherein, The one or more synchronization components include: a first gear connected to the first component and rotating about the first axis; a second gear connected to the second component and rotating about the second axis; and two or more intermediate gears connecting the first gear to the second gear.

12. The folding device according to claim 10, wherein, The one or more synchronization components are not located below the continuous display.

13. The folding device according to claim 10, wherein, The one or more synchronization components are located below the top and / or bottom bezels of the first and second components that are adjacent to the continuous display.

14. The folding device according to claim 10, wherein, The one or more synchronization components are located in the top hinge region or the bottom hinge region.

15. The folding device according to claim 10, wherein, The first set of the one or more synchronization components is located in the top hinge region, and the second set of the one or more synchronization components is located in the bottom hinge region.

16. The folding device according to claim 9, wherein, The folding device is then fully opened, and the inner surface of the central hinge region supports the continuous display.

17. The folding device according to claim 1, further comprising: A first lever arm, at a specific point during the transition of the folding device from fully closed to fully open, pushes the second folding support platform toward the rear surface of the continuous display. and A second lever arm, at a specific point during the transition of the folding device from fully closed to fully open, pushes the first folding support platform toward the rear surface of the continuous display.

18. The folding device according to any one of claims 1-17, further comprising: The first lever arm is configured to rotate about the first axis. A second lever arm configured to rotate about the second axis; A first lever knob fixed on the first axis, the first lever knob including an attachment configured to engage with the first lever arm at a specific point in the transition of the folding device from fully closed to fully open and to rotate the first lever arm; as well as A second lever knob fixed on the second axis, the second lever knob including an attachment configured to engage with the second lever arm at a specific point in the transition of the folding device from fully closed to fully open and to rotate the second lever arm.

19. A folding device, comprising: A first component, the first component having an inner surface and an outer surface; The second component has an inner surface and an outer surface; A hinge assembly connected to the first component and the second component; A continuous display, the continuous display comprising: A first rigid section, the first rigid section being attached to the first component. The second rigid section is attached to the second component. A flexible section, wherein the flexible section is disposed between the first rigid section and the second rigid section; and A first folding support platform, attached to the first component and configured to support the continuous display when the folding device is fully open, wherein the first folding support platform is not attached to the continuous display, and wherein, when the folding device is fully closed, at least a portion of the first folding support platform adjacent to the hinge component does not support the continuous display; and A second folding support platform, attached to the second component and configured to support the continuous display when the folding device is fully open, wherein the second folding support platform is not attached to the continuous display, and wherein, when the folding device is fully closed, at least a portion of the second folding support platform adjacent to the hinge assembly does not support the continuous display. Wherein, the first component is rotatably connected to the hinge assembly about a first axis, and the second component is rotatably connected to the hinge assembly about a second axis. When the folding device is fully opened around the hinge assembly, the inner surface of the first assembly is coplanar with the inner surface of the second assembly, and when the folding device is fully closed, the vertex of the flexible segment is closer to the outer surface of the hinge assembly than a plane parallel to the first and second axes.

20. The folding device of claim 19, further comprising a support plate attached to the flexible segment, the first rigid segment, and the second rigid segment, wherein the support plate is configured to allow bending between the segments, and wherein, To support the continuous display, the first foldable support platform and the second foldable support platform support the continuous display by supporting the support plate.

21. The folding device according to claim 20, wherein, To allow bending between sections, the support plate is etched and / or perforated at the boundaries between adjacent sections.

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