Support assembly and foldable display device having the same

Abstract

The application discloses a support assembly and a foldable display device with the same, the support assembly is used for a flexible display panel, and comprises two support structures, each of the support structures comprises a fixed plate, a sliding plate and a linkage, the sliding plate is slidably connected with the fixed plate along a first direction, and the linkage connects the fixed plate and the sliding plate; the support assembly has an unfolded state and a folded state; in the unfolded state, the two sliding plates abut against each other under the action of the corresponding linkage, so that the two sliding plates are used for supporting a bendable area of the flexible display panel; in the folded state, the two sliding plates are spaced from each other under the action of the corresponding linkage, so that the two sliding plates are used for avoiding the bendable area; and the first direction is perpendicular to a bending axis of the bendable area. According to the support assembly, creaseless folding of the foldable display device can be realized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of communication equipment technology, and in particular to a support component and a foldable display device having the same. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, most foldable display devices have a metal support (such as a steel sheet) on the underside of the flexible display panel. Holes are drilled in the bending area of ​​the metal support to form a neatly arranged hole structure, thus creating a structure that can be repeatedly bent. However, in daily use, foldable display devices need to be folded frequently, which can easily cause creases to appear on the flexible display panel, affecting its lifespan and user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, the present invention proposes a support component that facilitates crease-free folding of foldable display devices.

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a support assembly is used for a flexible display panel and includes: two support structures, each support structure including a fixed plate, a sliding plate, and a linkage member, the sliding plate slidingly engaging with the fixed plate along a first direction, the linkage member connecting the fixed plate and the sliding plate, the support assembly having an unfolded state and a folded state, in the unfolded state, the two sliding plates abutting against each other under the action of the corresponding linkage member, so that the two sliding plates support the bendable area of ​​the flexible display panel, in the folded state, the two sliding plates being spaced apart from each other under the action of the corresponding linkage member, so that the two sliding plates avoid the bendable area, the first direction being perpendicular to the bending axis of the bendable area.

[0005] According to the support assembly of the present invention, in the unfolded state, two sliding plates support the bendable area of ​​the flexible display panel, providing support to the bendable area and suppressing the tendency of the bendable area to bulge towards the sliding plates due to the folding of the flexible display panel, thereby reducing the deformation of the bendable area and effectively preventing creases from forming in the bendable area of ​​the flexible display surface. In the folded state, the two sliding plates are spaced apart to provide sufficient deformation space for the deformation of the bendable area, allowing the bendable area to deform fully, thus avoiding excessive stress in the bendable area that could affect its deformation, thereby preventing creases from forming in the bendable area during the folding process. As a result, the support assembly can effectively reduce the formation of creases in the bendable area, enabling crease-free folding of the flexible display panel and improving the service life of the flexible display panel.

[0006] In some embodiments, at least one slide rail is formed on one of the sliding plate and the fixed plate, and at least one slide groove is formed on the other. The slide rail slides and engages with the slide groove along the first direction and is also limited to engage with the slide groove along the second direction to prevent the slide rail from disengaging from the slide groove. The second direction is the thickness direction of the flexible display panel and is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0007] In some embodiments, the two side surfaces of the fixing plate in the second direction are respectively a first surface and a second surface. The sliding groove portion penetrates the first surface to form a groove. At least one of the sliding groove portions forms a limiting slide rail on its side wall away from the groove. At least one slide rail portion forms a limiting slide groove. The limiting slide rail slides and engages with the limiting slide rail along the first direction. The width of the limiting slide rail in the third direction and the width of the limiting slide groove in the third direction both increase along the direction from the second surface toward the first surface. And / or, the width of at least one sliding groove portion in the third direction and the width of at least one slide rail portion in the third direction both decrease along the direction from the second surface toward the first surface. The third direction is the extension direction of the bending axis and is perpendicular to the second direction.

[0008] In some embodiments, there are multiple slide rails and multiple slide grooves, and the multiple slide rails are spaced apart along a third direction, which is the extension direction of the bending axis and is perpendicular to the second direction.

[0009] In some embodiments, the linkage includes an elastic element, and the support assembly further includes a pivot structure pivotally connected to each of the fixed plates. In the unfolded state, the pivot structure abuts against the elastic element so that the elastic element applies an elastic force to the corresponding sliding plate to move toward the other sliding plate. In the folded state, the pivot structure disengages from the elastic element.

[0010] In some embodiments, the pivot structure includes two spaced-apart first pivot portions, each of which is pivotally connected to a corresponding fixed plate, and in the unfolded state, each of the first pivot portions abuts against a corresponding elastic member.

[0011] In some embodiments, the pivot structure defines a first clearance groove located between the two first pivot portions, the first clearance groove being used to avoid the bendable area in the folded state.

[0012] In some embodiments, the elastic member includes two connecting portions and a deformable portion. The two connecting portions are respectively connected to the fixed plate and the sliding plate. The deformable portion is connected between the two connecting portions, and in the unfolded state, the deformable portion abuts against the rotating shaft structure so that the deformable portion is used to push the two connecting portions away from each other.

[0013] In some embodiments, the support assembly further includes two brackets, each of the fixing plates being pivotally connected to the pivot structure via a corresponding bracket. Each bracket includes a mounting portion, a clearance portion, and a second pivot portion. The mounting portion is connected to the corresponding fixing plate. The clearance portion and the second pivot portion are both located at the end of the corresponding mounting portion facing the other mounting portion, and the clearance portion is located on the outside of the pivot structure. The second pivot portion is pivotally connected to the first pivot portion. In the folded state, the mounting portion, the clearance portion, and the pivot structure cooperate to define a second clearance groove, which is used to accommodate a portion of the elastic member.

[0014] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a foldable display device includes a flexible display panel and a support component according to the first aspect of the present invention described above. The flexible display panel includes a bendable region and two flat regions, the bendable region being connected between the two flat regions, and each flat region being connected to a corresponding fixed plate.

[0015] According to embodiments of the present invention, the foldable display device, by employing the aforementioned support components, can extend the service life of the flexible display panel and improve the user experience.

[0016] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0017] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram (unfolded state) of a foldable display device according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The sectional view shown along line AA;

[0020] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 An enlarged view of section B, shown in the center circle;

[0021] Figure 4 yes Figure 1Another schematic diagram of the foldable display device shown;

[0022] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view (folded state) of a foldable display device according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Enlarged view of section C, shown in the center circle;

[0024] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a support component according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Another schematic diagram of the support components shown;

[0026] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Enlarged view of section D shown in the center circle;

[0027] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the support and pivot structure according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0028] Figure label:

[0029] Foldable display device 200, flexible display panel 101, bendable area 101a, flat area 101b,

[0030] Support component 100, second clearance groove 10a, bending shaft 10b,

[0031] Support structure 1, fixing plate 11, sliding groove 11a, first surface 11b, second surface 11c, slot 11d, limiting sliding groove 11e, sliding plate 12, sliding rail 12a, limiting sliding rail 12b, linkage component 13, elastic component 13a, connecting part 13b, deformable part 13c.

[0032] Rotating shaft structure 2, first clearance groove 2a, first pivot part 21

[0033] Support 3, mounting part 31, clearance part 32, second pivot part 33. Detailed Implementation

[0034] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0035] The following disclosure provides numerous different embodiments or examples for implementing various structures of the invention. To simplify the disclosure, specific examples of components and arrangements are described below. These are merely examples and are not intended to limit the invention. Furthermore, reference numerals and / or letters may be repeated in different examples. Such repetition is for simplification and clarity and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or arrangements discussed. Additionally, examples of various specific processes and materials are provided in this invention; however, those skilled in the art will recognize the applicability of other processes and / or the use of other materials.

[0036] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, a support component 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described, the support component 100 being used for a flexible display panel 101.

[0037] like Figures 2-7 As shown, the support assembly 100 includes two support structures 1. Each support structure 1 includes a fixed plate 11, a sliding plate 12, and a linkage 13. The sliding plate 12 slides and engages with the fixed plate 11 along a first direction, and the linkage 13 connects the fixed plate 11 and the sliding plate 12. The first direction is perpendicular to the bending axis 10b of the bendable area 101a of the flexible display panel 101.

[0038] The support assembly 100 has an unfolded state and a folded state. In the unfolded state, two fixed plates 11 can be sequentially arranged along a first direction, and two sliding plates 12 abut against each other under the action of corresponding linkage members 13, so that the two sliding plates 12 are used to support the bendable area 101a of the flexible display panel 101, providing support for the bendable area 101a, thereby suppressing the tendency of the bendable area 101a to bulge towards the sliding plates 12 due to the folding of the flexible display panel 101, and reducing the deformation of the bendable area 101a. For example, the bendable area 101a can be folded to a folded state. The crease of 1a is unfolded, thereby effectively avoiding the formation of creases in the bendable area 101a of the flexible display surface; in the folded state, the two fixed plates 11 can be stacked, and the two sliding plates 12 are spaced apart from each other under the action of the corresponding linkage 13, so that the two sliding plates 12 can avoid the bendable area 101a, so as to provide sufficient deformation space for the deformation of the bendable area 101a, so that the bendable area 101a can be fully deformed, and to avoid the bendable area 101a being affected by excessive stress due to interference with the sliding plate 12.

[0039] It is understood that when the support component 100 cooperates with the flexible display panel 101, if the support component 100 is in an unfolded state, the flexible display panel 101 will also be unfolded; if the support component 100 is in a folded state, the flexible display panel 101 will also be folded. Therefore, the support component 100 of this embodiment can both prevent creases from forming in the bendable area 101a when the flexible display panel 101 is unfolded, facilitating crease-free folding of the flexible display panel 101, and provide sufficient deformation space for the foldable area 101a during folding, reducing stress in the bendable area 101a, thereby preventing creases from forming in the bendable area 101a when the flexible display panel 101 is folded, and thus improving the service life of the flexible display panel 101.

[0040] It should be noted that the sliding plate 12 and the fixed plate 11 slide and cooperate along a first direction. This first direction can be consistent with the folding direction of the support assembly 100, and it is perpendicular to the bending axis 10b of the bending area 101a. In other words, the first direction can change with the folding angle of the support assembly 100. For example, in Figure 2 and Figure 5 In the example, when the support assembly 100 is in the unfolded state, the two fixed plates 11 are arranged sequentially in the left-right direction, and the sliding plate 12 slides and engages with the fixed plates 11 in the left-right direction. When the support assembly 100 is in the folded state, the two fixed plates 11 are arranged opposite each other in the left-right direction, and the sliding plate 12 slides and engages with the fixed plates 11 in the up-down direction. The bending shaft 10b can be understood as the bending deformation of the bendable area 101a with the bending shaft 10b as the central axis when in the folded state; for example, in Figure 1 and Figure 6 In the example, the bendable area 101a is bent into a semi-circular structure with the bending axis 10b as the central axis. Of course, the bendable area 101a can also be bent into a teardrop-shaped structure with the bending axis 10b as the central axis.

[0041] For example, in Figures 2-3 and Figures 5-6 In the example, the two opposite sides of the flexible display panel 101 are the display side and the mounting side, respectively. The display side is set to face the user. The support structure 1 is located on the mounting side of the flexible display panel 101. In the unfolded state, the two support structures 1 are located on opposite sides of the bendable area 101a in the first direction. The two support structures 1 are structurally symmetrical. Each support structure 1 includes a fixed plate 11, a sliding plate 12, and two linkages 13. The sliding plate 12 slides and engages with the corresponding fixed plate 11 in the first direction. The linkages 13 are located between the corresponding fixed plate 11 and the sliding plate 12 to provide a function (e.g., force) for the sliding engagement of the sliding plate 12 relative to the fixed plate 11. Of course, the two support structures 1 can also be arranged asymmetrically; the number of linkages 13 in the support structure 1 can also be one, three, or more.

[0042] In the unfolded state, the two sliding plates 12 are located between the two fixed plates 11, and the four linkages 13 are equally disposed between the corresponding fixed plates 11 and the sliding plates 12. Under the action of the corresponding linkages 13, the two sliding plates 12 move along the first direction ( Figure 2 The two sliding plates 12, which abut against each other in the left and right directions, are in the second direction ( Figure 2 The flexible display panel 101 is supported by two sliding plates 12 in the vertical direction, which provides effective support to the flexible display panel 101, thereby suppressing the deformation tendency of the flexible display panel 101 towards the sliding plates 12 and effectively avoiding the generation of creases in the flexible display panel 101. In the folded state, the two sliding plates 12 are located on both sides of the flexible display panel 101, providing sufficient deformation space for the folding deformation of the flexible display panel 101, thereby avoiding the sliding plates 12 from affecting the deformation of the flexible display panel 101 and reducing the generation of creases. At this time, the flexible display panel 101 is folded into a teardrop shape or a U shape.

[0043] As can be seen, during the process of changing from the unfolded state to the folded state, under the action of the linkage 13, the sliding plate 12 can approach the corresponding fixed plate 11 along the first direction, and the bendable area 101a gradually changes from a flat shape to a teardrop shape or a U shape. As the folding process continues, the two sliding plates 12 move away from each other to provide deformation space for the bendable area 101a. During the process of changing from the folded state to the unfolded state, under the action of the linkage 13, the sliding plate 12 can move away from the corresponding fixed plate 11 along the first direction, and the bendable area 101a gradually changes from a teardrop shape or a U shape to a flat shape until the two sliding plates 12 come into contact with each other to support the bendable area 101a.

[0044] According to the support component 100 of the present invention, in the unfolded state, two sliding plates 12 support the bendable area 101a of the flexible display panel 101, providing support for the bendable area 101a to suppress the tendency of the bendable area 101a to bulge towards the sliding plates 12 due to the folding of the flexible display panel 101, thereby reducing the deformation of the bendable area 101a and effectively preventing creases from forming in the bendable area 101a of the flexible display surface. In the folded state, the two sliding plates 12 are spaced apart to provide sufficient deformation space for the deformation of the bendable area 101a, allowing the bendable area 101a to deform fully, thus avoiding excessive stress in the bendable area 101a that could affect its deformation. This facilitates the prevention of creases forming in the bendable area 101a during the folding process. As a result, the support component 100 can effectively reduce the formation of creases in the bendable area 101a, facilitating crease-free folding of the flexible display panel 101 and improving the service life of the flexible display panel 101.

[0045] Compared to some technologies that drill holes in the bending area of ​​the metal support to form a neatly arranged hole structure, making the bending area of ​​the metal support a repeatedly bendable structure to improve the bending performance of the metal support, this leads to a significant decrease in the rigidity of the metal support. This results in insufficient support in the bendable area of ​​the flexible display panel, making it prone to denting, and the lack of sufficient support also weakens the impact resistance of the flexible display panel. The support component 100 in this embodiment can provide sufficient support for the bendable area 101a in the unfolded state, thereby improving the creases in the bendable area 101a and enhancing its impact resistance.

[0046] For example, in Figure 3 In the example, the flexible display panel 101 includes a multi-layer structure including a protective layer (e.g., protective glass), an adhesive layer (e.g., an optical adhesive layer), a touch panel, a polarizer, an OLED, and a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer (PSA).

[0047] In some embodiments, such as Figures 7-8 As shown, at least one slide rail portion 12a is formed on one of the sliding plate 12 and the fixed plate 11, and at least one slide groove portion 11a is formed on the other of the sliding plate 12 and the fixed plate 11. The slide rail portion 12a is along a first direction (e.g., Figure 7 The slide rail 12a slides and engages with the slide groove 11a in the left-right direction, and the slide rail 12a slides along the second direction (e.g., the left-right direction) and the slide groove 11a slides and engages with the slide groove 11a ... Figure 2 The slide rail 12a is positioned in a limiting engagement with the slide groove 11a in the vertical direction (as shown in the image) to prevent the slide rail 12a from disengaging from the slide groove 11a. This allows the slide rail 12a and the slide groove 11a to engage in a limiting engagement in a second direction, which is the thickness direction of the flexible display panel 101 (e.g., the thickness direction of the panel). Figure 2 The sliding plate 12 and the fixed plate 11 are nested together, which facilitates stable sliding cooperation between the sliding plate 12 and the fixed plate 11. This prevents gaps from forming between the sliding plate 12 and the fixed plate 11 in the second direction when the sliding plate 12 slides relative to the fixed plate 11, thus affecting the supporting effect of the two sliding plates 12 on the bendable area 101a in the unfolded state. This ensures effective support of the sliding plate 12 for the bendable area 101a, suppresses deformation of the bendable area 101a, and avoids the formation of creases.

[0048] For example, in Figure 3 In the example, when in the unfolded state, the two sliding plates 12 are located between the two fixed plates 11, and multiple slide rail portions 12a are formed on the side of the two sliding plates 12 away from each other in the left-right direction. Each fixed plate 11 forms multiple slide groove portions 11a, and each slide rail portion 12a slides and engages with the corresponding slide groove portion 11a to ensure the stability of the sliding plate 12 sliding and engaging with the corresponding fixed plate 11 in the first direction.

[0049] Of course, the limiting of the slide rail 12a and the slide groove 11a in the second direction can also be achieved by other components besides the sliding plate 12 and the fixed plate 11.

[0050] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, the fixing plate 11 is in the second direction (e.g.) Figure 2 The two sides of the slide (in the vertical direction) are a first surface 11b and a second surface 11c, respectively. The slide groove 11a penetrates the first surface 11b to form a groove 11d. A limiting slide rail 12b is formed on the side wall of at least one slide groove 11a away from the groove 11d. At least one slide rail 12a forms a limiting slide groove 11e. The limiting slide rail 12b slides and engages with the limiting slide rail 12b in the first direction. The width of the limiting slide rail 12b in the third direction and the width of the limiting slide groove 11e in the third direction both increase along the direction from the second surface 11c toward the first surface 11b to achieve a limiting engagement between the slide rail 12a and the slide groove 11a in the second direction; and / or, the width of at least one slide groove 11a in the third direction and the width of at least one slide rail 12a in the third direction both decrease along the direction from the second surface 11c toward the first surface 11b. The third direction is the extension direction of the bending shaft 10b (e.g., the direction of extension). Figure 1 and Figure 7 The slide rail 12a and the slide groove 11a are positioned in the second direction, with the third direction perpendicular to the second direction, so as to achieve the limiting fit between the slide rail 12a and the slide groove 11a in the second direction.

[0051] This ensures stable sliding fit between the sliding plate 12 and the fixed plate 11, prevents the sliding plate 12 from detaching from the fixed plate 11, and allows the sliding plate 12 to rotate with the corresponding fixed plate 11. This ensures accurate positioning of the stop fit between the two sliding plates 12, reduces the distance error between the sliding plate 12 and the flexible display panel 101, and enables the two sliding plates 12 to effectively support the bendable area 101a in the unfolded state.

[0052] It should be noted that in the description of this application, "and / or" means including three parallel solutions. Taking "A and / or B" as an example, it includes solution A, solution B, or a solution that satisfies both A and B. Therefore, there are three solutions in total: Solution 1: At least one slide rail portion 12a forms a limiting slide groove 11e, and the limiting slide rail 12b slides and engages with the limiting slide rail 12b along a first direction. The width of the limiting slide rail 12b in the third direction and the width of the limiting slide groove 11e in the third direction both increase along the direction from the second surface 11c toward the first surface 11b; Solution 2: The width of at least one slide groove portion 11a in the third direction and the width of the limiting slide groove 11e in the third direction both increase along the direction from the second surface 11c toward the first surface 11b; In one embodiment, the width of at least one slide rail portion 12a in the third direction decreases along the direction from the second surface 11c toward the first surface 11b; in embodiment 3, at least one slide rail portion 12a forms a limiting groove 11e, and the limiting slide rail 12b slides and engages with the limiting slide rail 12b along the first direction. The widths of both the limiting slide rail 12b and the limiting groove 11e in the third direction increase along the direction from the second surface 11c toward the first surface 11b, and the widths of both the at least one groove portion 11a and the at least one slide rail portion 12a in the third direction decrease along the direction from the second surface 11c toward the first surface 11b. In embodiments 1 to 3 above, the groove portion 11a and the slide rail portion 12a can each be one, or there can be multiple groove portions 11a and slide rail portions 12a.

[0053] The widths of the limiting slide rail 12b and the limiting slide groove 11e in the third direction both increase along the direction from the second surface 11c toward the first surface 11b. This makes it easier for the width of the end of the limiting slide rail 12b and the limiting slide groove 11e near the first surface 11b in the third direction to be greater than the width of the end of the limiting slide rail 12b and the limiting slide groove 11e near the second surface 11c in the third direction. Similarly, the widths of the slide groove portion 11a and the slide rail portion 12a in the third direction both decrease along the direction from the second surface 11c toward the first surface 11b. This makes it easier for the width of the end of the slide groove portion 11a and the slide rail portion 12a near the first surface 11b in the third direction to be less than the width of the end of the slide groove portion 11a and the slide rail portion 12a near the second surface 11c in the third direction.

[0054] It should be noted that the width of the limiting slide rail 12b in the third direction and the width of the limiting slide groove 11e in the third direction both increase along the direction from the second surface 11c toward the first surface 11b. This may include the width of the limiting slide rail 12b in the third direction and the width of the limiting slide groove 11e in the third direction both gradually increasing or intermittently increasing (e.g., increasing in a stepped manner) along the direction from the second surface 11c toward the first surface 11b. Optionally, the limiting slide groove 11e is formed as a dovetail groove.

[0055] Similarly, the width of the groove portion 11a in the third direction and the width of the slide rail portion 12a in the third direction both decrease along the direction from the second surface 11c toward the first surface 11b. This can include the width of the groove portion 11a in the third direction and the width of the slide rail portion 12a in the third direction both gradually decreasing or intermittently decreasing (e.g., decreasing in a stepped manner) along the direction from the second surface 11c toward the first surface 11b. Optionally, the groove portion 11a is formed as a dovetail groove.

[0056] It is understandable that during the unfolding and folding of the support component 100, the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are always perpendicular to each other.

[0057] In other embodiments, at least one of the sliding plate 12 and the fixed plate 11 is formed with a groove 11a and at least one of the slide rails 12a is formed on the other. The groove 11a does not penetrate the two side surfaces of the sliding plate 12 and the fixed plate 11 in the second direction, which can also achieve the limiting fit between the sliding plate 12 and the fixed plate 11 in the second direction.

[0058] Taking the groove portion 11a formed on the fixed plate 11 as an example, the two side surfaces of the fixed plate 11 in the second direction are the first surface 11b and the second surface 11c, respectively. The groove portion 11a does not penetrate the first surface 11b and the second surface 11c, and the groove portion 11a can be formed by a portion of the side surface of the fixed plate 11 facing the corresponding sliding plate 12. At this time, the two side groove walls of the groove portion 11a in the second direction can be used to limit the sliding rail portion 12a, so as to realize the limiting cooperation between the sliding plate 12 and the fixed plate 11 in the second direction.

[0059] In some embodiments, such as Figure 7 As shown, there are multiple slide rails 12a and multiple slide grooves 11a. The multiple slide rails 12a are spaced apart along a third direction, and the multiple slide grooves 11a are spaced apart along a third direction. The multiple slide rails 12a and multiple slide grooves 11a are each formed with a sawtooth structure. Each slide rail 12a slides and engages with a corresponding slide groove 11a. This improves the reliability of the engagement between the sliding plate 12 and the fixed plate 11. It also prevents large-area openings from forming between the sliding plate 12 and the fixed plate 11 during the sliding process of the sliding plate 12 relative to the fixed plate 11, which could cause the flexible display panel 101 to easily sink when the user presses it with their finger. This ensures that the support structure 1 provides better support for the entire bendable area 101a, thus ensuring a better user experience when touching and operating the flexible display panel 101. The third direction is the extension direction of the bending axis 10b (e.g., Figure 1 and Figure 7 (The front and back directions in the middle) and the third direction is perpendicular to the second direction.

[0060] Of course, the slide rail part 12a and the slide groove part 11 can each be one.

[0061] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, the linkage 13 includes an elastic element 13a, and the support assembly 100 also includes a pivot structure 2, which is pivotally connected to each fixed plate 11, so that the support assembly 100 can stably switch between the unfolded state and the folded state.

[0062] In the unfolded state, the pivot structure 2 and the elastic element 13a abut against each other, so that the elastic element 13a applies an elastic force to the corresponding sliding plate 12 to move towards the other sliding plate 12. This causes the two sliding plates 12 to come into contact under the action of the corresponding elastic element 13a, thus supporting the bendable area 101a of the flexible display panel 101 and suppressing deformation of the bendable area 101a towards the sliding plate 12, thereby preventing creases from forming in the bendable area 101a. In the folded state, the pivot structure 2 and the elastic element 13a disengage, allowing the elastic element 13a to return to its natural state, and the two sliding plates 12 are spaced apart under the action of the corresponding elastic element 13a.

[0063] As can be seen, during the process of switching from the unfolded state to the folded state, the resisting force between the pivot structure 2 and the elastic member 13a can be reduced, and the elastic member 13a returns to its natural state to apply an elastic force away from the other sliding plate 12 to the corresponding sliding plate 12; during the process of switching from the folded state to the unfolded state, the resisting force between the pivot structure 2 and the elastic member 13a increases, and the elastic member 13a can push the corresponding sliding plate 12 to move away from the corresponding fixed plate 11 until the two sliding plates 12 come into contact.

[0064] It is understandable that the support component 100 can provide support for the flexible display panel 101 (e.g., the bendable area 101a) corresponding to the hinge structure 2, so as to avoid the situation where the bendable area 101a is prone to creases or indentation when the hinge structure 2 is only provided, which would not provide effective support for the bendable area 101a. Thus, by setting the support structure 1, the occurrence of creases in the bendable area 101a can be avoided.

[0065] It should be noted that the elastic element 13a, when the support assembly 100 is in the unfolded state, tends to return to the shape when the support assembly 100 is in the folded state. This means that the elastic element 13a has a natural shape when the support assembly 100 is in the folded state, and tends to return to its natural shape in other states. The above-mentioned technical solution of this application, by employing the cooperation of the pivot structure 2 and the elastic element 13a, changes the direction of the elastic force applied by the elastic element 13a to the sliding plate 12. This design is ingenious and has good practicality.

[0066] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 and Figure 10 As shown, the pivot structure 2 includes two spaced-apart first pivot parts 21. Each first pivot part 21 is pivotally connected to a corresponding fixed plate 11. In the unfolded state, each first pivot part 21 abuts against a corresponding elastic member 13a, so that the elastic member 13a deforms to push the corresponding sliding plate 12 to move away from the fixed plate 11. Thus, the two sliding plates 12 abut against each other to support the bendable area 101a.

[0067] For example, in Figure 3 and Figure 10 In the example, the two first pivot parts 21 of the pivot structure 2 are pivotally connected to the corresponding fixed plates 11. During the process of the support assembly 100 switching from the folded state to the unfolded state, the first pivot part 21 and the corresponding elastic element 13a abut against each other to cause the elastic element 13a to deform. The elastic element 13a can push a sliding plate 12 to move away from the corresponding fixed plate 11 until the two sliding plates 12 abut against each other. Similarly, it can be seen that during the process of the support assembly 100 switching from the unfolded state to the folded state, the abutting force between the elastic element 13a and the corresponding first pivot part 12 gradually decreases. The elastic element 13a returns to its natural state to apply an elastic force away from the other sliding plate 12 to the corresponding sliding plate 12, so that the two sliding plates 12 are spaced apart to avoid the foldable area 101a, until the support assembly 100 switches to the folded state.

[0068] In other embodiments, the linkage 13 includes an elastic element 13a, and the support assembly 100 also includes a pivot structure 2. The pivot structure 2 is pivotally connected to each fixed plate 11. The pivot structure 2 includes two stop portions and two spaced-apart first pivot portions 21. Each first pivot portion 21 is pivotally connected to the corresponding fixed plate 11. In the unfolded state, each stop portion stops against the elastic element 13a of the corresponding support structure 1, so that the elastic element 13a deforms to push the two sliding plates 12 to stop.

[0069] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3As shown, the pivot structure 2 defines a first clearance groove 2a, which is located between the two first pivot parts 21. The first clearance groove 2a is used to avoid the bendable area 101a in the folded state, so as to avoid the bendable area 101a interfering with the pivot structure 2 during the folding deformation process. At the same time, it further provides deformation space for the bendable area 101a, so as to further avoid the bendable area 101a from having large stress and producing creases in the folded state.

[0070] For example, in Figure 3 In the example, in the folded state, the bendable area 101a deforms with the folding of the support component 100 to form a U-shaped structure for the flexible display panel 101. When the bendable area 101a is folded into a semi-circle, the first clearance groove 2a can accommodate the downward deformation of the bendable area 101a, thus avoiding interference between the bendable area 101a and the pivot structure 2 and affecting the deformation of the bendable area 101a.

[0071] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, the elastic member 13a includes two connecting parts 13b and a deformable part 13c. The two connecting parts 13b are respectively connected to the fixed plate 11 and the sliding plate 12, that is, one connecting part 13b is connected to the fixed plate 11 and the other connecting part 13b is connected to the sliding plate 12. The deformable part 13c is connected between the two connecting parts 13b. In the unfolded state, the deformable part 13c abuts against the rotating shaft structure 2 so that the deformable part 13c is used to push the two connecting parts 13b away from each other so that the two sliding plates 12 are abutted under the push of the connecting parts 13b.

[0072] For example, in Figure 3 and Figure 6 In the example, in the folded state, the elastic element 13a is located between the fixed plate 11 and the sliding plate 12 on the same side of the pivot structure 2, and the two connecting parts 13b are fixedly connected to the fixed plate 11 and the sliding plate 12 respectively. The deformable part 13c is formed into a V-shape or U-shape, and the deformable part 13c protrudes in the direction away from the flexible display panel 101. During the process of changing from the folded state to the unfolded state, the two fixed plates 11 rotate in the direction away from each other to make the flexible display panel 101 unfold. As the two fixed plates 11 unfold to a certain extent, the protruding end of the deformable part 13c away from the flexible display panel 101 abuts against the pivot structure 2. As the two fixed plates 11 continue to unfold, the pivot structure 2 squeezes the deformable part 13c to make the deformable part 13c close to the flexible display panel 101, contract and deform, and expand to both sides. The elastic element 13a pushes the sliding plate 12 to move away from the corresponding fixed plate 11. When the two fixed plates 11 rotate to the unfolded state, the two sliding plates 12 abut against each other to support the bendable area 101a.

[0073] For example, in Figure 3 In the example, the pivot structure 2 includes two spaced-apart first pivot portions 21, and the elastic member 13a includes two connecting portions 13b and a deformable portion 13c. During the process of changing from the folded state to the unfolded state, the deformable portion 13c abuts against the first pivot portion 21 of the pivot structure 2. As the two fixed plates 11 continue to unfold, the first pivot portion 21 squeezes the deformable portion 13c so that the deformable portion 13c contracts closer to the flexible display panel 101 and expands and deforms on both sides. The elastic member 13a pushes the sliding plate 12 to move away from the corresponding fixed plate 11. When the two fixed plates 11 rotate to the unfolded state, the two sliding plates 12 abut against each other to support the bendable area 101a.

[0074] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, in the unfolded state, the sliding plate 12 includes a support portion for supporting the bendable area 101a. In the first direction, the sum of the widths of the support portions of the two mutually abutting sliding plates 12 is L. In the folded state, the bendable area 101a is folded and deformed into a semi-circle with a diameter of D, where D ≥ L, to avoid interference between the sliding plate 12 and other components of the support assembly 100 (such as the pivot structure 2) when switching between the unfolded and folded states.

[0075] In some embodiments, such as Figures 6-7 and Figure 10 As shown, the support assembly 100 also includes two brackets 3. Each bracket 3 includes a mounting part 31, a clearance part 32, and a second pivot part 33. The mounting part 31 is connected to the corresponding fixed plate 11. The clearance part 32 and the second pivot part 33 are both located at one end of the mounting part 31 facing the other bracket 3. The second pivot part 33 is pivotally connected to the first pivot part 21, so that each fixed plate 11 can be pivotally connected to the rotating shaft structure 2 through the corresponding bracket 3. The clearance part 32 is located on the outside of the rotating shaft structure 2 to avoid interference between the bracket 3 and the rotating shaft structure 2 during the unfolding and folding of the support assembly 100, ensuring the relative rotation of the bracket 3 and the rotating shaft structure 2. At the same time, the clearance part 32 blocks part of the rotating shaft structure 2, making it easier for the clearance part 32 to block the internal structure of the rotating shaft structure 2 facing the flexible display panel 101. Also, if the clearance part 32 and the rotating shaft structure 2 are tightly fitted, foreign objects can be prevented from entering the interior of the support assembly 100 and affecting the normal operation of the components of the support assembly 100 (such as the rotating shaft structure 2 or the support structure 1).

[0076] In the folded state, the mounting part 31, the clearance part 32, and the pivot structure 2 cooperate to define a second clearance groove 10a. The second clearance groove 10a is used to accommodate a part of the elastic member 13a, so as to provide sufficient space for the elastic member 13a to return to its natural state. This is beneficial for the elastic member 13a to move the sliding plate 12 a suitable distance. At the same time, during the process of returning to its natural state, the two ends of the elastic member 13a move closer to each other to pull the sliding plate 12 to move towards the corresponding fixed plate 11. This makes the two sliding plates 12 move away from each other to provide sufficient deformation space for the folding deformation of the bendable area 101a, and avoids interference between the sliding plate 12 and the bendable area 101a, which would affect the folding deformation of the bendable area 101a.

[0077] It is understandable that, in the folded state, the elastic element 13 may be in its natural state or not.

[0078] For example, in Figures 6-7 and Figure 10 In the example, the second pivoting portions 33 of the two brackets 3 are pivotally connected to the first pivoting portion 21 of the rotating shaft structure 2, respectively. The two support structures 1 are respectively disposed on the corresponding brackets 3. Each support structure 1 includes two elastic members 13a. The two fixed plates 11 are respectively fixedly disposed on the mounting portion 31. In the unfolded state, the two sliding plates 12 are located between the two fixed plates 11, and the two sliding plates 12 abut against each other. The elastic members 13a are disposed between the corresponding fixed plates 11 and sliding plates 12, and the elastic members 13a abut against the first pivoting portion 21 of the rotating shaft structure 2. The clearance portion 32 covers the lower part of the rotating shaft structure 2. The flexible display panel 101 is located on the upper side of the support structure 1. In the folded state, the flexible display panel 101 is folded into a U-shape. The two support structures 1 are located on both sides of the flexible display panel 101. The clearance part 32, the mounting part 31 and the pivot structure 2 define two second clearance grooves 10a. The elastic members 13a of the two support structures 1 return to their natural shape. Each second clearance groove 10a accommodates the elastic member 13a of the corresponding support structure 1, avoiding interference between the elastic member 13a and the fixing plate 11 or the pivot structure 2, while providing sufficient deformation space for the elastic member 13a to return to its natural shape.

[0079] Optionally, the bracket 3 and the fixing plate 11 can be an integral part or separate parts.

[0080] It is understood that when the support assembly 100 includes a support structure 1, a pivot structure 2, and a bracket 3, and is used in the foldable display device 200, the support assembly 100 can be understood as follows: by setting the support structure 1 between the component formed by the pivot connection between the bracket 3 and the pivot structure 2 and the flexible display panel 101, the support structure 1 supports the bendable area 101a, reducing the occurrence of creases in the bendable area 101a, thereby improving the applicability of the support structure 1. In this case, the support structure 1 can also be used as a universal fitting in the foldable display device 200, improving the service life of the flexible display panel 101. Of course, in other embodiments, the support assembly 100 includes the support structure 1 and the bracket 3, but does not include the pivot structure 2. In this case, the support structure 1 can also be used as a universal fitting in the foldable display device 200, improving the service life of the flexible display panel 101.

[0081] Optionally, when the support assembly 100 is used for the foldable display device 200, at least a portion of the bracket 3 can be used to form the middle frame of the foldable display device 200, which simplifies the structure of the foldable display device 200.

[0082] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a foldable display device 200 includes a flexible display panel 101 and a support component 100 according to the first aspect of the present invention. The flexible display panel 101 includes a bendable region 101a and two flat regions 101b. The bendable region 101a is connected between the two flat regions 101b. Each flat region 101b is connected to a corresponding fixing plate 11, that is, one flat region 101b is connected to the fixing plate 11 of one of the support structures 1, and the other flat region 101b is connected to the fixing plate 11 of the other support structure 1.

[0083] Optionally, the foldable display device 200 may include a plurality of support components 100 to allow the flexible display panel 101 to be folded multiple times to adapt to different design requirements. In this case, the flexible display panel 100 may have a plurality of bendable areas 101a.

[0084] For example, a foldable display device 200 (such as a foldable phone) includes two support components 100. The two support components 100 can be arranged along a first direction on the underside of the flexible display panel 101. One support structure 1 of one support component 100 is integral with or fixedly connected to one support structure 1 of the other support component 100. In other words, two adjacent support structures 1 of the two support components 100 are integral with or fixedly connected, so that the flexible display panel 101 can be folded twice along the folding direction, and the flexible display panel 101 can form a tri-fold screen. Of course, the foldable display device 200 may also include a single support component 100.

[0085] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the foldable display device 200, by employing the support component 100 described above, can extend the service life of the flexible display panel 101 and improve the user experience.

[0086] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "length," "width," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships, are based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and are only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the invention. Furthermore, features defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0087] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0088] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0089] In this invention, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or that they are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature. Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions, and variations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A support component, characterized in that, The support component is used for the flexible display panel and includes: Two support structures are provided, each including a fixed plate, a sliding plate, and a linkage. The sliding plate slides in conjunction with the fixed plate along a first direction, and the linkage connects the fixed plate and the sliding plate. The support assembly has an unfolded state and a folded state. In the unfolded state, the two sliding plates stop against each other under the action of the corresponding linkage, so that the two sliding plates are used to support the bendable area of ​​the flexible display panel. In the folded state, the two sliding plates are spaced apart from each other under the action of the corresponding linkage, so that the two sliding plates are used to avoid the bendable area. The first direction is perpendicular to the bending axis of the bendable area. The linkage includes an elastic element, and the support assembly further includes a pivot structure. The pivot structure is pivotally connected to each of the fixed plates respectively. In the unfolded state, the pivot structure abuts against the elastic element so that the elastic element applies an elastic force to the corresponding sliding plate to move toward the other sliding plate. In the folded state, the pivot structure disengages from the elastic element.

2. The support component according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one slide rail is formed on one of the sliding plate and the fixed plate, and at least one slide groove is formed on the other. The slide rail slides and engages with the slide groove along the first direction and is also limited to engage with the slide groove along the second direction to prevent the slide rail from disengaging from the slide groove. The second direction is the thickness direction of the flexible display panel and is perpendicular to the first direction.

3. The support component according to claim 2, characterized in that, The fixing plate has a first surface and a second surface on its two sides in the second direction, and the sliding groove penetrates the first surface to form a groove. At least one of the slide rail portions has a limiting slide rail formed on its side wall away from the groove opening, and at least one slide rail portion has a limiting slide groove formed. The limiting slide rail slides in cooperation with the limiting slide rail along the first direction. The width of the limiting slide rail in the third direction and the width of the limiting slide groove in the third direction both increase along the direction from the second surface toward the first surface; and / or, The width of at least one of the groove portions in the third direction and the width of at least one of the slide rail portions in the third direction both decrease along the direction from the second surface toward the first surface, wherein the third direction is the extension direction of the bending axis and is perpendicular to the second direction.

4. The support component according to claim 2, characterized in that, There are multiple slide rails and multiple slide grooves. The multiple slide rails are spaced apart along a third direction, which is the extension direction of the bending axis and is perpendicular to the second direction.

5. The support component according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The pivot structure includes two spaced-apart first pivot parts, each of which is pivotally connected to the corresponding fixed plate. In the unfolded state, each of the first pivot parts is stopped by the corresponding elastic element.

6. The support component according to claim 5, characterized in that, The pivot structure defines a first clearance groove located between the two first pivot portions, the first clearance groove being used to avoid the bendable area in the folded state.

7. The support component according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The elastic element includes two connecting parts and a deformable part. The two connecting parts are respectively connected to the fixed plate and the sliding plate. The deformable part is connected between the two connecting parts. In the unfolded state, the deformable part abuts against the rotating shaft structure so that the deformable part is used to push the two connecting parts away from each other.

8. The support component according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, It also includes two brackets, each of the fixed plates being pivotally connected to the rotating shaft structure via a corresponding bracket. Each bracket includes a mounting portion, a clearance portion, and a second pivot portion. The mounting portion is connected to the corresponding fixed plate. Both the clearance portion and the second pivot portion are located at the end of the corresponding mounting portion facing the other mounting portion, with the clearance portion located on the outside of the rotating shaft structure. The second pivot portion is pivotally connected to the first pivot portion. In the folded state, the mounting portion, the clearance portion, and the pivot structure cooperate to define a second clearance groove, which is used to accommodate a portion of the elastic member.

9. A foldable display device, characterized in that, The invention includes a flexible display panel and a support component according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein the flexible display panel includes a bendable region and two flat regions, the bendable region being connected between the two flat regions, and each flat region being connected to a corresponding fixed plate.

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