Folding portable display device

Abstract

An example folding device includes a hinge assembly coplanar with a continuous display of the device to reduce the thickness of the device. The hinge assembly includes a torque member that increases the amount of force required to rotate the assembly. In this manner, the torque member may provide a more rigid feel for the device. Likewise in this way, the torque member may enable the device to maintain an intermediate position between fully open and fully closed.

Description

Background Art

[0001] A device including a display may be referred to as a display device. In general, it may be desirable to increase the size of the display (e.g., the area on which an image is displayed) as much as possible. Increasing the size of the display may make the device including the display larger and bulkier. For example, a device with a larger display may not fit into a pocket, bag, etc. One way to increase the size of the display without excessively increasing the size of the device is to make the device collapsible so that the display can be folded (e.g., folded in half). Summary of the invention

[0002] In general, aspects of the present disclosure relate to a folding device including a foldable continuous display having a support span. The folding device may include at least two assemblies (e.g., panels) and a mechanism configured to allow the assemblies to move to a collapsed state in which the device is considered closed and an expanded state in which the device is considered open. When the device is in the expanded state, the display may be visible and may cover at least a portion of the inner surface of all assemblies. Thus, the device may be considered a continuous display (i.e., because it is continuous across the boundaries between the assemblies). By utilizing such a folding device, the device may include a display having 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 collapsed state. In this way, the "portability" of large-screen portable devices can be improved.

[0003] In some examples, a folding device may have a thickness that impairs the portability of the device. The thickness of the device may be due to the position of the hinge assembly relative to the display of the device. In some examples, the feel of the hinge assembly (e.g., how it feels to a user to open and close the device 100), automatic locking (e.g., maintaining an intermediate position between fully open and fully closed), cycle life, opening and closing force advantages, etc. may be improved depending on the configuration of the hinge assembly.

[0004] According to one or more aspects of the present disclosure, a folding device may include a hinge assembly having a torque member that is coplanar with a continuous display to reduce the thickness of the device. The torque member of the hinge assembly can increase the amount of force required to rotate the assembly. In this way, the torque member can provide a more rigid feel to the folding device. Also in this way, the torque member can enable the folding device to maintain an intermediate position between fully open and fully closed (e.g., a half-open position in which the assemblies are at an angle of about 90 degrees relative to each other).

[0005] In one example, a folding device includes: a continuous display; a hinge assembly defining a first hinge axis; a first hinge arm assembly rotatably connected to the hinge assembly about the first hinge axis; a second hinge arm assembly rotatably connected to the hinge assembly about the second hinge axis; a first shaft defining a first shaft axis and connected to the barrel; a second shaft defining a second shaft axis and connected to the barrel; a first torque member mounted on the first shaft and configured to apply a first biasing torque about the first shaft axis; a second torque member mounted on the second shaft and configured to apply a second biasing torque about the second shaft axis; a first torque arm mechanically coupled to the first torque member and configured to rotate about the first shaft axis and slide relative to the first hinge arm assembly; and a second torque arm mechanically coupled to the second torque member and configured to rotate about the second shaft axis and slide relative to the second hinge arm assembly.

[0006] The details of one or more examples are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the disclosure will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of a folding device having a multi-rigid-segment flexible display according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

[0008] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing a folding device with a flexible display in multiple folding states according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

[0009] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing components of a folding device having a hinge assembly according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 4A and Figure 4B is a schematic diagram showing components of a folding device having a hinge assembly according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing a folding device with a hinge assembly in multiple folding states according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing a folding device with a continuous display and a hinge assembly according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating a cam assembly according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 8 is a graph illustrating torque applied by a hinge assembly according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of a foldable device 100 having a multi-rigid segment flexible display according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. Examples of the device 100 include a foldable mobile computing device such as a foldable smartphone, a foldable tablet, a foldable e-reader, a foldable gaming system, or any other foldable portable device including a display.

[0016] like Figure 1 As shown in , the device 100 includes a first assembly 102, a second assembly 104, a continuous display 106, and a hinge assembly 122. The first assembly 102 can be configured to rotate around a first hinge axis 116A, which defines a first hinge axis in the y direction, and the second assembly 104 can be configured to rotate around a second hinge axis 116B, which defines a second hinge axis in the y direction. Each of the first assembly 102 and the second assembly 104 may include an inner surface and an outer surface. When the device 100 is viewed downward along the z-axis, the outer surface of the first assembly 102 may be visible, and when the device 100 is viewed upward along the z-axis, the outer surface of the second assembly 104 may be visible. When the device 100 is closed, the inner surfaces of the first assembly 102 and the second assembly 104 may not be visible from the outside.

[0017] like Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , the first assembly 102 may include a main logic board 134 and the second assembly 104 may include a battery 136. This is only one example arrangement of components in the first assembly 102 and / or the second assembly 104; other arrangements are possible. For example, both the first assembly 102 and the second assembly 104 may include respective batteries.

[0018] The continuous display 106 may be capable of presenting data as an image viewable by a user of the device 100. For example, the continuous display 106 may include an independently controllable matrix of pixels. Examples of the continuous display 106 include, but are not limited to, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, a micro light emitting diode (microLED) display, or a similar monochrome or color display capable of outputting visible information to a user of the device 100.

[0019] In some examples, device 100 may include one or more displays in addition to continuous display 106. For example, Figure 1 As shown in , device 100 may include a first additional display (eg, display 198) on an outer surface of first assembly 102. In some examples, device 100 may further include a second additional display on an outer surface of second assembly 104.

[0020] One or more of the continuous display 106, the first additional display, and / or the second additional display may be presence-sensitive displays. In some examples, the presence-sensitive display may detect objects at and / or near the screen. As an example range, the presence-sensitive display may detect objects, such as a finger or a stylus, within 2 inches or less of the screen. The presence-sensitive display may determine the location of the screen (e.g., (x, y) coordinates) at which the object was detected. In another example range, the presence-sensitive display may detect objects that are 6 inches or less from the screen, and other ranges are possible. The presence-sensitive display may use capacitive, inductive, and / or optical recognition technology to determine the location of the screen selected by the user's finger. In some examples, the presence-sensitive display also provides output to the user using tactile, audio, or video stimulation.

[0021] like Figure 1 As shown in the example of , the continuous display 106 includes a first rigid segment 110 attached to the first assembly 102 (e.g., positioned on the inner surface of the first assembly 102 and coplanar with the inner surface of the first assembly 102), a flexible segment 108, and a second rigid segment 112 attached to the second assembly 104 (e.g., positioned on the inner surface of the second assembly 104 and coplanar with the inner surface of the first assembly 102). Figure 1 As further shown in the example of , the flexible segment 108 includes a rigid segment 124 connecting the rigid segment 110 to the flexible segment 108 and a rigid segment 126 connecting the rigid segment 112 to the flexible segment 108. When the device 100 is fully open, the rigid segment 124 may be coplanar with the inner surface of the first assembly 102 and the rigid segment 126 may be coplanar with the inner surface of the second assembly 104. However, when the device 100 is fully closed, the rigid segment 124 may not be coplanar with the inner surface of the first assembly 102 and the rigid segment 126 may not be coplanar with the inner surface of the second assembly 104. The rigid segment 124 may be articulable relative to the rigid segment 110 at a hinge point 130. The rigid segment 126 may be articulable relative to the rigid segment 112 at a hinge point 132.

[0022] Rigid segments 110 and 112 may be referred to as primary rigid segments, while rigid segments 124 and 126 may be referred to as secondary rigid segments. In some examples, the width of the primary rigid segments (e.g., in the x-direction) may be substantially greater than the width of the secondary rigid segments. For example, the width of rigid segment 124 may be less than or equal to one quarter (25%) of the width of rigid segment 110. Similarly, the width of rigid segment 126 may be less than or equal to one quarter (25%) of the width of rigid segment 112.

[0023] The secondary rigid segment can be articulated relative to the adjacent primary rigid segment. As an example, the rigid segment 124 can be articulated relative to the rigid segment 110 at a hinge point 130. As another example, the rigid segment 126 can be articulated relative to the rigid segment 112 at a hinge point 132. In some examples, the hinge points between the secondary rigid segments and the primary rigid segments (e.g., hinge points 130 and 132) can have a large radius and limited movement compared to the radius and movement of the primary flexible segment 108. As an example, the rigid segment 124 can be configured to articulate at most 45 degrees relative to the rigid segment 110. As another example, the rigid segment 126 can be configured to articulate at most 45 degrees relative to the rigid segment 112.

[0024] The main flexible segment 108 may connect a rigid segment on one side of the device 100 to a rigid segment on the other side of the device 100. For example, Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , the main flexible segment 108 can connect the rigid segment 124 to the rigid segment 126. The main flexible segment 108 can be configured to fold at least 180 degrees (eg, to facilitate closure of the device 100).

[0025] The device 100 may include one or more support plates (e.g., back plates) configured to render segments of the continuous display 106 flexible or rigid. The support plates may be positioned between the emissive elements (e.g., OLEDs) of the continuous display 106 and the inner surfaces of the first assembly 102 and the second assembly 104.

[0026] In some examples, device 100 may include corresponding support plates for segments of continuous display 106. For example, one or more support plates may include a first support plate attached to first rigid segment 110, a second support plate attached to second rigid segment 112, a third support plate attached to rigid segment 124, and / or a fourth support plate attached to rigid segment 126.

[0027] In some examples, the one or more support plates may include a respective support plate for each of the first assembly 102 and the second assembly 104, the respective support plate supporting a segment of the continuous display 106 on the respective assembly. For example, the one or more support plates may include: a first support plate attached to the first rigid segment 110 and the rigid segment 124, the first support plate being configured to permit bending between the first rigid segment 110 and the rigid segment 124; and a second support plate attached to the second rigid segment 112 and the rigid segment 126, the second support plate being configured to permit bending between the second rigid segment 112 and the rigid segment 126.

[0028] In some examples, the one or more support plates may include a single support plate for a segment of the continuous display 106 attached to both the first assembly 102 and the second assembly 104. For example, the one or more support plates may include a single support plate attached to the primary flexible segment 108 and all primary and secondary rigid segments (e.g., the first rigid segment 110, the second rigid segment 112, the rigid segment 124, and the rigid segment 126). The single support plate may be configured to permit bending between the segments. To permit bending between the segments, the support plate may be etched and / or perforated at the boundaries between adjacent segments.

[0029] In some examples, device 100 may have a thickness that impairs the portability of device 100. For example, when device 100 is in a collapsed state in which device 100 may be considered closed, device 100 may have a thickness greater than 10 millimeters (mm). The thickness of device 100 may be due to the position of hinge assembly 122 relative to display 106. For example, if hinge assembly 122 is not coplanar with display 106, hinge assembly 122 may significantly increase the thickness of device 100.

[0030] According to the techniques of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly 122 can be configured to allow for a thinner folding device while improving one or more of the feel, automatic locking, cycle life, or opening and closing force advantages of the device 100. For example, as described in more detail below, the hinge assembly 122 can include a torque member that provides a more rigid feel to the device 100, enables the device 100 to automatically lock, improves cycle life and opening and closing force advantages, etc. In this way, the hinge assembly 122 can provide better or equivalent performance (e.g., better feel, automatic locking, cycle life, opening and closing force advantages, etc.) in a thinner housing.

[0031] Figure 2 2 is a schematic diagram showing a folding device 200 having a flexible continuous display 206 in multiple folded states according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The device 200 may be Figure 1 An example of the apparatus 100 is shown in FIG. Figure 2As shown in , when the device 200 is closed, a portion of the display 206 is within the hinge assembly 222. Figure 2 As shown in , when the folding device 200 is fully opened, the inner surface of the first assembly 202 is coplanar with the inner surface of the second assembly 204 .

[0032] The torque member of the hinge assembly 222 can be configured to apply a biasing torque that resists the rotation of the hinge arm assembly 222. In this way, the torque member can enable the device 200 to maintain Figure 2 The intermediate position between fully open and fully closed is shown in FIG.

[0033] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing components of a folding device 300 having a hinge assembly 322 according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The device 300 may be Figure 1 As described in more detail below, the components of device 300 can be configured to allow for a thinner folded device while improving one or more of the feel, automatic locking, cycle life, or opening and closing force advantages of device 300.

[0034] The hinge assembly 322 may be Figure 1 . A first hinge arm assembly 342A and a second hinge arm assembly 342B (collectively referred to as "hinge arm assembly 342") may be rotatably connected to the hinge assembly 322. For example, the first hinge arm assembly 342A may be rotatably connected to the hinge assembly 322 about a first hinge axis 360A, and the second hinge arm assembly 342B may be rotatably connected to the hinge assembly 322 about a second hinge axis 360B.

[0035] The hinge assembly 322 may include a first hinge gear 344A and a second hinge gear 344B (collectively referred to as "hinge gears 344"). The first hinge gear 344A may be configured to rotate about a first hinge axis, and the second hinge gear 344B may be configured to rotate about a second hinge axis. The hinge gear 344 may extend from the hinge arm assembly 342 or otherwise be connected to the hinge arm assembly 342. Figure 3 In the example of FIG. 3 , the first hinge gear 344A extends from the first hinge arm assembly 342A, and the second hinge gear 344B extends from the second hinge arm assembly 342B.

[0036] When the device 300 moves between the open state and the closed state, the hinge assembly 322 can be configured to synchronize the movement of the hinge arm assembly 342. For example, the first hinge gear 344A can be configured to mesh with the second hinge gear 344B to synchronize the movement of the first hinge arm assembly 342A and the second hinge arm assembly 342B. In another example, the hinge assembly 322 may include a first auxiliary gear 346A and a second auxiliary gear 346B (collectively referred to as "auxiliary gears 346"). The first auxiliary gear 346A can be configured to mesh with the first hinge gear 344A and the second auxiliary gear 346B to synchronize the movement of the first hinge arm assembly 342A and the second hinge arm assembly 342B. The second auxiliary gear 346B can be configured to mesh with the second hinge gear 344B and the first auxiliary gear 346A to synchronize the movement of the first hinge arm assembly 342A and the second hinge arm assembly 342B.

[0037] The first torque member 348A and the second torque member 348B (collectively, "torque members 348") can be configured to apply a biasing torque that resists rotation of the hinge arm assembly 342. In this manner, the torque members 348 can provide a more rigid feel to the device 300. Also in this manner, the torque members 348 can enable the device 300 to maintain an intermediate position between fully open and fully closed (e.g., a half-open position in which the hinge arm assembly 342, and thus the first and second assemblies of the device 300, are at approximately a 90 degree angle relative to each other).

[0038] The torque member 348 can be mounted on a first shaft 350A and a second shaft 350B (collectively referred to as "shafts 350"). The shaft 350 can be connected to a barrel 352 of the hinge assembly 322. The connection between the shaft 350 and the barrel 352 can be rotationally fixed. In some examples, the first shaft 350A can be welded or otherwise attached to a first side wall defined by the barrel 352, and the second shaft 350B can be welded or otherwise attached to a second side wall defined by the barrel 352.

[0039] A first torque arm 354A and a second torque arm 354B (collectively referred to as "torque arms 354") can be mechanically coupled to the torque member 348. For example, the first torque arm 354A can be in contact with the first torque member 348A, and the second torque arm 354B can be in contact with the second torque member 348B. In some examples, the torque arm 354 can be connected to a cam, which in turn contacts the torque member 348. The interface between the torque member 348 and the torque arm 354 can be designed to modify the biasing torque applied by the torque member 348.

[0040] The first torque arm 354A can be configured to rotate about a first shaft axis 366A defined by the first shaft 350A. Rotation of the first torque arm 354A about the first shaft axis 366A (and, in turn, rotation of the first torque member 348A) can cause the first torque member 348A to apply a first biasing torque. Similarly, the second torque arm 354B can be configured to rotate about a second shaft axis 366B defined by the second shaft 350B. Rotation of the second torque arm 354B about the second shaft axis 366B (and, in turn, rotation of the second torque member 348B) can cause the second torque member 348B to apply a second biasing torque.

[0041] The hinge assembly 322 can be configured to synchronize the movement of the hinge arm assembly 342 and the torque arm 354 when the device 300 moves between the open state and the closed state. For example, the hinge arm assembly 342 can be mechanically coupled to the torque arm 354 so that the torque arm 354 (and in turn the torque member 348) moves when the hinge arm assembly 342 moves. In this way, the hinge assembly 322 can advantageously adjust or otherwise control the amount of force required to open and close the device 300.

[0042] In some examples, a first hinge axis defined by the hinge assembly 322 may not be coaxial with a first shaft axis defined by the first shaft 350A, and a second hinge axis defined by the hinge assembly 322 may not be coaxial with a second shaft axis defined by the second shaft 350B. In such examples and as described in more detail below, the torque arm 354 may move relative to the hinge arm assembly 342 to facilitate rotation of the hinge arm assembly 342. In other words, the torque arm 354 configured to move relative to the hinge arm assembly 342 may improve rotation of the hinge arm assembly 342 by reducing undesired resistance created, for example, by geometric constraints.

[0043] Thus, the first torque arm 354A may slide or otherwise move relative to the first hinge arm assembly 342A, and the second torque arm 354B may slide or otherwise move relative to the second hinge arm assembly 342B. For example, the first hinge arm assembly 342A may define a first channel (e.g., a slot) in which a portion of the first torque arm 354A (e.g., the first pin 370A) is disposed, and the second hinge arm assembly 342B may define a second channel in which a portion of the second torque arm 354B (e.g., the second pin 370B) is disposed. The first pin 370A of the first torque arm 354A may slide within the first channel, and the second pin 370B of the second torque arm 354B may slide within the second channel.

[0044] When the torque arm 354 contacts the perimeter of the first channel and the second channel, the torque arm 354 and the hinge arm assembly 342 can apply torque to each other. For example, the hinge arm assembly 342 can apply torque to the torque arm 354 to rotate the torque arm 354 around the first shaft axis and the second shaft axis, and the torque arm 354 can apply a first biasing torque and a second biasing torque to resist the rotation of the hinge arm assembly 342 around the first hinge arm axis and the second hinge arm axis.

[0045] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B is a schematic diagram showing components of a folding device 400 having a hinge assembly 422 according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The hinge assembly 422 may be Figure 1 The hinge assembly 122 shown in FIG. 1 and / or Figure 3 An example of a hinge assembly 422 is shown in FIG.

[0046] like Figure 4A As shown in , the hinge assembly 422 may include a first hinge gear 444A and a second hinge gear 444B (collectively referred to as "hinge gears 444"). The first hinge gear 444A may be configured to rotate around a first hinge axis 460A defined by the hinge assembly 422, and the second hinge gear 444B may be configured to rotate around a second hinge axis 460B defined by the hinge assembly 422.

[0047] The first hinge gear 444A may be configured to mesh with the second hinge gear 444B to synchronize the movement of the first hinge arm assembly 442A and the second hinge arm assembly 442B (collectively referred to as the "hinge arm assembly 442"). In some examples, the hinge assembly 422 may include a first auxiliary gear 446A and a second auxiliary gear 446B (collectively referred to as the "auxiliary gears 446"). The first auxiliary gear 446A may be configured to mesh with the first hinge gear 444A and the second auxiliary gear 446B to synchronize the movement of the first hinge arm assembly 442A and the second hinge arm assembly 442B. The second auxiliary gear 446B may be configured to mesh with the second hinge gear 444B and the first auxiliary gear 446A to synchronize the movement of the first hinge arm assembly 442A and the second hinge arm assembly 442B.

[0048] Hinge assembly 422 may include barrel 452. Barrel 452 may at least partially surround hinge gear 444 and auxiliary gear 446. Barrel cap 462 may be configured to cooperate with barrel 452 so that barrel 452 and barrel cap 462 protect hinge gear 444 and auxiliary gear 446. In some examples, barrel cap 462 may be permanently attached (e.g., welded or glued) to barrel 452. Permanently attaching barrel cap 462 to barrel 452 may provide better axis size control and solid gearbox design. For example, by making barrel cap 462 and barrel 452 separate components configured to be attached to each other, barrel cap 462 and barrel 452 may be more efficiently and accurately manufactured, which may be particularly important due to the small size of barrel cap 462 and barrel 452. For similar reasons, gearbox components (e.g., hinge gear 444, auxiliary gear 446, etc.) may be more directly assembled and aligned to allow for smaller tolerances, thereby potentially producing a better functioning (e.g., smoother) hinge action. The barrel cover 464 can be attached to the barrel cap 462 (eg, via a press fit, adhesive, or any other suitable technique).

[0049] like Figure 4B As shown in , the hinge assembly 422 may include a first shaft 450A and a second shaft 450B (collectively referred to as "shaft 450"). The shaft 450 may be connected to the cylinder 452. The first torque member 448A and the second torque member 448B may be mounted on the first shaft 450A and the second shaft 450B, respectively. The first shaft 450A may define a first shaft axis 466A, and the second shaft 450B may define a second shaft axis 466B. The first torque member 448A may be configured to rotate around the first shaft axis 466A, thereby causing the first torque member 448A to apply a first biasing torque. Similarly, the second torque member 448B may be configured to rotate around the second shaft axis 466B, thereby causing the second torque member 448B to apply a second biasing torque.

[0050] exist Figure 4B In the example of , the first hinge axis 460A is not coaxial with the first shaft axis 466A, and the second hinge axis 460B is not coaxial with the second shaft axis 466B. To allow the device 400 to open and close, the first hinge arm assembly 442A can define a first channel 468A in which the first pin 470A of the first torque arm 454A can be disposed, and the second hinge arm assembly 442B can define a second channel 468B in which the second pin 470B of the second torque arm 454B can be disposed. The first pin 470A can slide within the first channel 468A and the second pin 470B can slide within the second channel 468B, so that the device 300 can be opened and closed.

[0051] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing a folding device 500 having a hinge assembly 522 in multiple folded states according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. Specifically, Figure 5 The folding device 500 is shown in all three states: a fully open state, a fully closed state, and an intermediate (e.g., 45 degree) state. The device 500 may be Figure 1 The device 100 shown in Figure 2 The device 200 shown in Figure 3 Examples of the apparatus 300 shown in FIG. 4 and / or the apparatus 400 shown in FIG. Figure 5 As shown in , the first hinge arm assembly 542A defines a first channel 568A in which the first pin 570A can be disposed, and the second hinge arm assembly 542B defines a second channel 568B in which the second pin 570B can be disposed. Figure 5 As shown in , due to the geometry of hinge assembly 522 (eg, hinge axis is not coaxial with shaft axis), first pin 570A slides within first channel 568A and second pin 570B slides within second channel 568B when device 500 is opened and closed.

[0052] The device 500 may include a first support plate 572A and a second support plate 572B (collectively referred to as "support plate 572"). The support plate 572 may be configured to be foldable. For example, when the device 500 is opened, contact between the support plate 572 and the edge of the hinge assembly 522 may cause the support plate 572 to unfold. For example, contact between the foldable support plate 572 and the edges 574A to 574B (collectively referred to as "edges 574") of the hinge assembly 522 may cause the foldable support plate 572 to be unfolded. Although the edge 574 of the hinge assembly 522 may cause the foldable support plate 572 to unfold (e.g., rise, lift, etc.), it is desirable that the foldable support plate 572 is easily retracted (e.g., lowered, folded, etc.) when the folding device 500 is closed.

[0053] The device 500 may include one or more biasing members, such as a first biasing member 576A and a second biasing member 576B (collectively referred to as "biasing members 576"). The first biasing member 576A may be connected to the first support plate 572A, and the second biasing member 576B may be connected to the second support plate 572B. Figure 5 As shown in , the first biasing member 576A is configured to facilitate articulation of the first support plate 572A relative to the first hinge arm assembly 542A. Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 5 , the second biasing member 576B is configured to facilitate articulation of the second support plate 572B relative to the second hinge arm assembly 542B.

[0054] In some examples, the biasing member 576 may be configured to bias the support plate 572 to a retracted (e.g., retracted) position. For example, the device 500 may include a first biasing component 576A located in the first assembly 542A and a second biasing member 576B located in the second assembly 542B. The first biasing member 576A may be configured to bias the first support plate 572A to a retracted position and the second biasing member 576B may be configured to bias the second support plate 572B to a retracted position. In some examples, the device 500 may include a single biasing member on each side (e.g., one biasing member in each of the first assembly 542A and the second assembly 542B). In some examples, the device 500 may include multiple biasing members on each side (e.g., two or more biasing members in each of the first assembly 542A and the second assembly 542B). Examples of the first biasing member 576A and the second biasing member 576B include spring-loaded pins, hydraulic pistons, etc.

[0055] As described above, the first biasing member 576A and the second biasing member 576B can bias the support plate 572 to the retracted position, respectively. However, the force applied by the edge 574 to the support plate 572 can be sufficient to overcome the force applied by the first biasing member 576A and the second biasing member 576B to the foldable support plate 572. However, when the device 500 is transformed into the closed position, the first biasing member 576A and the second biasing member 576B can respectively pull the foldable support plate 572 down to the folded position.

[0056] Figure 6 6 is a schematic diagram showing a folding device 600 having a continuous display 606 and a hinge assembly 622 according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The device 600 may be Figure 1 The device 100 shown in Figure 2 The device 200 shown in Figure 3 300 shown in FIG. 4 , the device 400 shown in FIG. 4 , and / or Figure 5 An example of an apparatus 500 is shown in FIG.

[0057] The hinge assembly 622 according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure may be neither below the display 606 nor above the display 606; rather, the cross-section of the hinge assembly 622 may be coplanar with the longitudinal cross-section of the display 606. Figure 6 In the example of FIG. 6 and as shown by plane 680 (e.g., an xy plane intersecting display 606), when display 606 is fully opened, a lateral cross-section of hinge assembly 622 is coplanar with a longitudinal cross-section of display 606. Because hinge assembly 622 is neither below display 606 nor above display 606 (e.g., relative to plane 680), but is instead coplanar, the form factor of device 600 can be thinner, thereby improving the portability of device 600.

[0058] Figure 7 FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a cam assembly 780 according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. Figure 7 As shown in , the cam assembly 780 may include a cam mechanically coupled to the torque member 748. For example, the cam assembly 780 may include a fixed cam 781, a rotating cam 782, and a sliding cam 784. The torque arm (e.g., the first torque arm 354A) may be coupled to the rotating cam 782 such that rotation of the torque arm causes corresponding rotation of the rotating cam 782.

[0059] According to the techniques of the present disclosure, the components of the cam assembly 780 can operate together to apply a biasing torque. For example, the biasing force applied by the torque member 748 can press the sliding cam 784 into the rotating cam 782. When the rotating cam 782 and the sliding cam 784 are thus engaged, the friction between the fixed rotating cam 782 and the sliding cam 784 (e.g., in response to the rotation of the rotating cam 782) can generate a torque.

[0060] like Figure 7 As shown in , the rotating cam 782 and the sliding cam 784 may each have a profile so that the rotating cam 782 and the sliding cam 784 can contact each other at various angles. The angle at which the rotating cam 782 and the sliding cam 784 contact each other may affect the torque generated by the friction between the fixed rotating cam 782 and the sliding cam 784. Therefore, modifying the profile of the rotating cam 782 and / or the sliding cam 784 may change the torque generated by the cam assembly 780. In some examples, the profile of the rotating cam 782 and / or the sliding cam 784 may allow a torque that varies with the rotation of the rotating cam 782 relative to the sliding cam 784.

[0061] As the rotating cam 782 rotates relative to the sliding cam 784, the torque member 748 may press the sliding cam 784 into a detent (e.g., a catch, such as a groove, that prevents movement until released) of the rotating cam 782. Similarly (and simultaneously), the rotating cam 782 may be pressed into the detent of the fixed cam 781. When the sliding cam 784 is positioned in the detent of the rotating cam 782 and the rotating cam 782 is positioned in the detent of the fixed cam 781, the fixed cam 781, the rotating cam 782, and the sliding cam 784 may be in a relatively secure configuration that feels "locked". Depending on the angular position of the rotating cam 782, the fixed cam 781, the rotating cam 782 and the sliding cam 784 can be in this "locked" configuration when the cam assembly 780 is opened or closed, thereby creating an "auto-open" and "auto-close" feeling (for example, because the torque member 748 applies a biasing force that automatically presses the fixed cam 781, the rotating cam 782 and the sliding cam 784 into the corresponding pawls when the rotating cam 782 is being rotated).

[0062] Figure 8 is a graph illustrating torque applied by a hinge assembly according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. Figure 8 Mainly relative to Figure 1 However, it should be understood that Figure 8 The description of may equally apply to any other hinge assemblies described herein.

[0063] The biasing torque applied by the hinge assembly 122 may vary based on the angular position of the hinge assembly 122 and the direction in which the hinge assembly 122 is being rotated. Figure 8 As shown in , when the hinge assembly 122 is at an angular position of 0 degrees (e.g., when the device 100 is fully closed) and is being opened (e.g., such that the angular position of the hinge assembly 122 changes from 0 degrees toward 180 degrees), the hinge assembly 122 may apply a bias torque of about 250 Newton-millimeters (N*mm). When the hinge assembly 122 is opened from an angular position of about 0 degrees to about 30 degrees, the bias torque applied by the hinge assembly 122 may decrease from about 250 N*mm to about 100 N*mm. When the hinge assembly 122 is opened from about 30 degrees to 150 degrees, the bias torque applied by the hinge assembly 122 may be about 100 N*mm. When the hinge assembly 122 is opened to an angular position of about 180 degrees, the bias torque applied by the hinge assembly 122 may decrease from about 100 N*mm to about 0 N*mm.

[0064] In another example and if Figure 8 As shown in , when the hinge assembly 122 is at an angular position of 180 degrees (e.g., when the device 100 is fully closed) and is being closed (e.g., such that the angular position of the hinge assembly 122 changes from 180 degrees toward 0 degrees), the hinge assembly 122 may apply a bias torque of approximately -250 N*mm. When the hinge assembly 122 is closed from an angular position of approximately 180 degrees to approximately 150 degrees, the bias torque applied by the hinge assembly 122 may increase from approximately -250 N*mm to approximately -100 N*mm. When the hinge assembly 122 is closed from approximately 150 degrees to approximately 30 degrees, the bias torque applied by the hinge assembly 122 may be approximately -100 N*mm. When the hinge assembly 122 is closed to an angular position of approximately 0 degrees, the bias torque applied by the hinge assembly 122 may increase from approximately -100 N*mm to approximately 0 N*mm.

[0065] The following numbered examples may illustrate one or more aspects of the present disclosure:

[0066] Example 1: A folding device comprises: a continuous display; a hinge assembly, which defines a first hinge axis and a second hinge axis, including rotating around the first axis and sliding relative to the first hinge arm assembly; and a second torque arm, which is mechanically connected to the second torque member and is configured to rotate around the second axis and slide relative to the second hinge arm assembly.

[0067] Example 2: The folding device as described in Example 1, wherein, when the continuous display is fully opened, the transverse cross-section of the hinge assembly is coplanar with the longitudinal cross-section of the continuous display.

[0068] Example 3: The folding device as described in Example 1 or 2 further includes: a first support plate, which is connected to the first hinge arm assembly; a first biasing member, which is connected to the first support plate and is configured to promote the articulation of the first support plate relative to the first hinge assembly; a second support plate, which is connected to the second hinge arm assembly; and a second biasing member, which is connected to the second support plate and is configured to promote the articulation of the second support plate relative to the second hinge assembly.

[0069] Example 4: The folding device of Example 3, wherein the first biasing member comprises a first spring-loaded pin, and wherein the second biasing member comprises a second spring-loaded pin.

[0070] Example 5: A folding device as described in any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the hinge assembly includes: a first hinge gear, which is configured to rotate around the first hinge axis; and a second hinge gear, which is configured to rotate around the second hinge axis, wherein the first gear is configured to engage with the second gear to synchronize the movement of the first hinge arm assembly and the second hinge arm assembly.

[0071] Example 6: A folding device as described in Example 5, wherein the hinge assembly includes: a first auxiliary gear; and a second auxiliary gear, wherein the first auxiliary gear is configured to mesh with the first hinge gear and the second auxiliary gear to synchronize the movements of the first hinge arm assembly and the second hinge arm assembly, and wherein the second auxiliary gear is configured to mesh with the second hinge gear and the first auxiliary gear to synchronize the movements of the first hinge arm assembly and the second hinge arm assembly.

[0072] Example 7: A folding device as described in any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the first torque member includes a first spring, and wherein the second torque member includes a second spring.

[0073] Example 8: A folding device as described in any of Examples 1 to 7, wherein the first shaft is permanently attached to a first side wall defined by the tube, and wherein the second shaft is permanently attached to a second side wall defined by the tube.

[0074] Example 9: A folding device as described in any of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the hinge assembly includes a barrel cap permanently attached to the barrel.

[0075] Example 10: A folding device as described in any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the continuous display includes an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display or a micro light emitting diode display.

[0076] Various aspects have been described in this disclosure. These and other aspects are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A folding device, comprising: Continuous display; a hinge assembly defining a first hinge axis and a second hinge axis, including a barrel; a first hinge arm assembly rotatably connected to the hinge assembly about the first hinge axis; a second hinge arm assembly rotatably connected to the hinge assembly about the second hinge axis; a first shaft defining a first shaft axis connected to the barrel; a second shaft defining a second shaft axis connected to the barrel; a first torque member mounted on the first shaft and configured to apply a first biasing torque about the first shaft axis; a second torque member mounted on the second shaft and configured to apply a second biasing torque about the second shaft axis; A first torque arm, mechanically coupled to the first torque member, configured to: rotating about the first axis; as well as Sliding relative to the first hinge arm assembly; as well as A second torque arm, mechanically coupled to the second torque member, configured to: rotating about the second shaft axis; as well as Slide relative to the second hinge arm assembly.

2. The folding device according to claim 1, wherein: When the continuous display is fully opened, a transverse cross-section of the hinge assembly is coplanar with a longitudinal cross-section of the continuous display.

3. The folding device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: a first support plate connected to the first hinge arm assembly; a first biasing member connected to the first support plate and configured to facilitate articulation of the first support plate relative to the first hinge assembly; a second support plate connected to the second hinge arm assembly; as well as A second biasing member is connected to the second support plate and is configured to promote articulation of the second support plate relative to the second hinge assembly.

4. The folding device according to claim 3, wherein: The first biasing member comprises a first spring-loaded pin, and wherein the second biasing member comprises a second spring-loaded pin.

5. The folding device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The hinge assembly comprises: a first hinge gear configured to rotate about the first hinge axis; and A second hinge gear is configured to rotate about the second hinge axis, wherein the first gear is configured to mesh with the second gear to synchronize movement of the first hinge arm assembly and the second hinge arm assembly.

6. The folding device according to claim 5, wherein: The hinge assembly comprises: a first auxiliary gear; and A second auxiliary gear, wherein the first auxiliary gear is configured to mesh with the first hinge gear and the second auxiliary gear to synchronize the movement of the first hinge arm assembly and the second hinge arm assembly, and wherein the second auxiliary gear is configured to mesh with the second hinge gear and the first auxiliary gear to synchronize the movement of the first hinge arm assembly and the second hinge arm assembly.

7. The folding device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The first torque member comprises a first spring, and wherein the second torque member comprises a second spring.

8. The folding device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The first shaft is permanently attached to a first side wall defined by the barrel, and wherein the second shaft is permanently attached to a second side wall defined by the barrel.

9. The folding device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The hinge assembly includes a barrel cap permanently attached to the barrel.

10. The folding device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: The continuous display comprises an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display or a micro light emitting diode (MLED) display.

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