Display assembly for automobile interior

Abstract

A display assembly for an interior of an automobile includes a dynamically bendable cover plate having first and second panel portions, a flexible panel portion connecting the first and second panel portions, a display positioned adjacent the first and second panel portions, and a frame supporting the cover plate, the frame includes a first frame portion for supporting the first panel portion, a second frame portion for supporting the second panel portion, and a hinge portion coupling the first frame portion and the second frame portion, the hinge portion being configured to engage the first frame portion and the second frame portion when the second frame portion is hinged with respect to the first frame portion from a rectilinear position to a deployed position. A curved shape with smoothly connected arc segments is induced in the flexible panel portion between the first panel portion and the second panel portion.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the Chinese national phase application No. 202080045282.0 of PCT international application No. PCT / US2020 / 038319, with a filing date of June 18, 2020 and an invention name of “Display assembly for automotive interior”.

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 864,155 filed on June 20, 2019, relies on the contents of that application, and incorporates the entire contents of that application herein by reference. Technical Field

[0004] The present invention relates generally but not by way of limitation to dynamically bendable automotive interior display systems. Specifically, but not by way of limitation, the present invention relates to dynamically bendable automotive interior display systems having a support member capable of dynamically and reversibly bending a cover substrate between forwardly bent, straight, and rearwardly bent positions. Background Art

[0005] The surface included in the automotive interior system can be combined with a display and / or a touch panel and a cover substrate arranged above the display and / or the touch panel. It is desirable to change the shape of the surface, in particular to dynamically change the shape of the surface according to the needs or preferences of the viewer (e.g., the driver or passenger). This dynamic movement should also allow the automotive interior system to meet strict head form impact test (HIT) requirements. In some cases, the cover substrate should not break after being impacted in the HIT. Therefore, a dynamically bendable cover substrate and an automotive interior display system that exhibits improved head form impact performance are needed. Summary of the invention

[0006] The present inventors have recognized that problems to be solved in automotive displays and touch panels include the need to strengthen dynamically bendable cover substrates, such as strengthening cover substrates that may become separated from or not supported by the internal structure to which they are attached. In particular, in a dynamically bendable cover substrate, a first portion of the substrate is hinged to be deflected relative to a second portion of the substrate. Therefore, while the second portion can remain fully supported by the internal structure (e.g., the dashboard), the first portion can become cantilevered so that only the backing or frame of the substrate supports the first portion. Therefore, the present inventors have recognized that a dynamically bendable cover substrate is required to have a frame structure capable of supporting the substrate in order to prevent breakage.

[0007] The inventors have also recognized that problems to be solved in automotive displays and touch panels include the need to control the bending of the cover substrate in a dynamically bendable cover substrate so as to provide a smooth curvature. The inventors have recognized that substrates such as glass substrates tend to naturally bend along a parabolic curvature, which may form discontinuities between panel portions connected by the parabolic curvature. Therefore, the inventors have recognized the need for a dynamically bendable cover substrate having a frame structure capable of controlling the bending and curvature of the cover substrate so as to provide an aesthetically pleasing curved shape.

[0008] The present subject matter can help provide solutions to these and other problems, such as providing a frame structure that can influence and, if desired, fully control the curvature of a dynamically bendable cover substrate and provide sufficient support for the cover substrate to meet HIT requirements, whether supported by the vehicle interior structure or cantilevered.

[0009] In one example, a display assembly for an automobile interior includes: a dynamically bendable cover having a first panel portion, a second panel portion, a flexible panel portion connecting the first panel portion and the second panel portion; at least one display positioned adjacent to the first panel portion and the second panel portion, respectively; and a frame supporting the cover, the frame including a first frame portion for supporting the first panel portion, a second frame portion for supporting the second panel portion, and a hinge portion connecting the first frame portion and the second frame portion, the hinge portion being configured to cause a curved shape having a smoothly connected arc segment in the flexible panel portion between the first panel portion and the second panel portion when the second frame portion is hinged from a straight position to a deployed position relative to the first frame portion. In one or more embodiments, the display includes more than one display screen. In one or more embodiments, the display includes a first display screen and a second display screen, wherein the first display portion is adjacent to the first panel portion, and the second display portion is adjacent to the second panel portion.

[0010] In one or more embodiments, the hinge portion may include a living hinge.

[0011] In one or more embodiments, the living hinge may include a mechanical weakening of the frame in the hinge portion.

[0012] In one or more embodiments, the living hinge may include a plurality of longitudinal slots extending through the hinge portion proximate the flexible panel portion.

[0013] In one or more embodiments, each of the plurality of longitudinal slots may include: a flat slot extending parallel to the flexible panel portion; and an abutment surface extending from the flat slot, wherein the spacing between the abutment surfaces is less than the width of the flat slot when the hinge portion is in a straight position. Each of the plurality of longitudinal slots may include a suspended bend stop.

[0014] In one or more embodiments, the suspended bend stop may include: a first protrusion extending laterally from the hinge portion; a second protrusion extending laterally from the hinge portion and spaced apart from the first protrusion; a cross member extending longitudinally from the second protrusion and spaced apart from the hinge portion; and a tab extending laterally from the cross member toward the hinge portion on a side of the first protrusion opposite to the second protrusion.

[0015] In one or more embodiments, the hinge portion may include a plurality of transverse slots extending through the hinge portion transversely relative to the flexible panel portion.

[0016] In one or more embodiments, the plurality of transverse slots are arranged in offset rows and columns.

[0017] In one or more embodiments, the first frame portion, the second frame portion, and the hinge portion of the frame may be a unitary structure.

[0018] In one or more embodiments, the living hinge may include: a first end; a second end; and a middle portion extending between the first end and the second end, wherein the middle portion has a cross-sectional profile with a varying thickness to control bending of the living hinge.

[0019] In one or more embodiments, the middle portion may be thicker than the first end portion and the second end portion.

[0020] In one or more embodiments, the display assembly may further include a mandrel having a circular arc segment shape.

[0021] In one or more embodiments, the hinge portion of the frame may include a spindle.

[0022] In one or more embodiments, the second frame portion is slidable relative to the second panel portion and includes a surface configured to mate flush with the spindle such that when the second panel portion slides to engage with the spindle, the frame is in a linear position and when the second panel portion slides to disengage from the spindle, the frame is in a deployed position.

[0023] In one or more embodiments, the first frame portion, the second frame portion, and the hinge portion of the frame may be a unitary structure, with the mandrel positioned behind the hinge portion.

[0024] In one or more embodiments, the hinge portion may include a plurality of hinge linkages pinned to the first frame portion and the second frame portion.

[0025] In one or more embodiments, each of the plurality of hinge linkages may include a first deflector to prevent movement in the linear position and a second deflector to prevent movement in the deployed position.

[0026] In one or more embodiments, the plurality of hinge linkages may include an elongated bend linkage having a first end pinned to a first frame portion, an intermediate member configured to extend over a flexible panel portion and at least a portion of a second panel portion, and a second end pinned to the second frame portion at a slot, wherein the second frame portion extends over only a portion of the second panel portion.

[0027] In one or more embodiments, the elongated curved linkage mechanism may be configured to engage the flexible panel portion in the deployed position and disengage the flexible panel portion in the straight position.

[0028] In one or more embodiments, the plurality of hinge linkages may include: a bent linkage pinned to a first frame portion, extending through a flexible panel portion and pinned to a second frame portion at a slot; a first straight lug rigidly extending from the first panel portion through at least a portion of the flexible panel portion; and a second straight lug rigidly extending from the second panel portion through at least a portion of the flexible panel portion; wherein, in a straight position, the first straight lug and the second straight lug engage the flexible panel portion, and in a deployed position, the bent linkage engages the flexible panel portion.

[0029] In one or more embodiments, the plurality of hinge linkages may include a scissor-type mechanism.

[0030] In one or more embodiments, the scissor-type mechanism may include: a plurality of struts extending from behind the flexible panel portion, each of the plurality of struts having a pivot point at its free end; a plurality of first linkage mechanisms extending from the pivot point at a first end and connected to an adjacent first linkage mechanism at a second end; and a plurality of second linkage mechanisms extending from the second end of the first linkage mechanism at a third end and connected to an adjacent second linkage mechanism at a fourth end.

[0031] In one or more embodiments, the hinge portion may include a sliding mechanism.

[0032] In one or more embodiments, the sliding mechanism may include: a first set of guide rails extending from a first frame portion; and a second set of guide rails extending from a second frame portion; wherein the first set of guide rails and the second set of guide rails include a hinge portion; wherein the first set of guide rails can slide freely along the second set of guide rails.

[0033] In one or more embodiments, the display assembly may further include a damper for controlling movement of the hinge portion between the straight position and the deployed position.

[0034] In one or more embodiments, the damper may be selected from the group consisting of a hydraulic shock absorber, a spring, a corrugation device, and a rubber stopper.

[0035] In one or more embodiments, the hinge portion may be configured to induce a radius of curvature having a circular arc segment in the flexible panel portion between the first panel portion and the second panel portion.

[0036] In another example, a display assembly for an automobile interior includes: a dynamically bendable cover panel, the cover panel including a first panel portion, a second panel portion, and a flexible panel portion connecting the first panel portion and the second panel portion; a display, adjacent to the first panel portion and the second panel portion; and a frame supporting the dynamically bendable cover panel, the frame including a first frame portion for supporting the first panel portion, a second frame portion for supporting the second panel portion, and a movable hinge connecting the first frame portion and the second frame portion. In one or more embodiments, the display includes more than one display screen. In one or more embodiments, the display includes a first display screen and a second display screen, wherein the first display portion is adjacent to the first panel portion, and the second display portion is adjacent to the second panel portion.

[0037] In one or more embodiments, the living hinge may include a mechanical weakening of the frame in the hinge portion.

[0038] In one or more embodiments, the living hinge may include a plurality of longitudinal slots extending through the hinge portion proximate the flexible panel portion.

[0039] In one or more embodiments, each of the plurality of longitudinal slots may include: a flat slot extending parallel to the flexible panel portion; and adjacent surfaces extending from the flat slot, wherein a spacing between the adjacent surfaces is less than a width of the flat slot when the hinge portion is in a straight position.

[0040] In one or more embodiments, each longitudinal slot of the plurality of longitudinal slots may include a suspended bend stop.

[0041] In one or more embodiments, the suspended bend stop may include: a first protrusion extending laterally from the hinge portion; a second protrusion extending laterally from the hinge portion and spaced apart from the first protrusion; a cross member extending longitudinally from the second protrusion and spaced apart from the hinge portion; and a tab extending laterally from the cross member toward the hinge portion on a side of the first protrusion opposite to the second protrusion.

[0042] In one or more embodiments, the hinge portion may include a plurality of transverse slots extending through the hinge portion transversely relative to the flexible panel portion.

[0043] In one or more embodiments, the plurality of transverse slots are arranged in offset rows and columns.

[0044] In one or more embodiments, the first frame portion, the second frame portion, and the hinge portion of the frame may be a unitary structure.

[0045] In one or more embodiments, the living hinge may include: a first end; a second end; and a middle portion extending between the first end and the second end, wherein the middle portion has a cross-sectional profile with a varying thickness to control bending of the living hinge.

[0046] In one or more embodiments, the middle portion may be thicker than the first end portion and the second end portion.

[0047] In an additional example, a display assembly for an automobile interior includes: a dynamically bendable cover panel, the cover panel including a first panel portion, a second panel portion, and a flexible panel portion connecting the first panel portion and the second panel portion; a display, adjacent to the first panel portion and the second panel portion; a frame supporting the dynamically bendable cover panel, the frame including a first frame portion for supporting the first panel portion, a second frame portion for supporting the second panel portion, and a hinge portion connecting the first frame portion and the second frame portion; and a mandrel located behind the flexible panel portion, the mandrel having the shape of an arc segment. In one or more embodiments, the display includes more than one display screen. In one or more embodiments, the display includes a first display screen and a second display screen, wherein the first display portion is adjacent to the first panel portion, and the second display portion is adjacent to the second panel portion.

[0048] In one or more embodiments, the hinge portion of the frame may include a spindle.

[0049] In one or more embodiments, the second frame portion is slidable relative to the second panel portion and includes a surface configured to mate flush with the spindle such that when the second panel portion slides to engage with the spindle, the frame is in a linear position and when the second panel portion slides to disengage from the spindle, the frame is in a deployed position.

[0050] In one or more embodiments, the first frame portion, the second frame portion, and the hinge portion of the frame may be a unitary structure, with the mandrel positioned behind the hinge portion.

[0051] In yet another example, a display assembly for an automobile interior includes: a dynamically bendable cover panel including a first panel portion, a second panel portion, and a flexible panel portion connecting the first panel portion and the second panel portion; a display adjacent to the first panel portion and the second panel portion; and a frame supporting the dynamically bendable cover panel, the frame including a first frame portion for supporting the first panel portion, a second frame portion for supporting the second panel portion, and a plurality of hinge-link mechanisms pinned to the first frame portion and the second frame portion. In one or more embodiments, the display includes more than one display screen. In one or more embodiments, the display includes a first display screen and a second display screen, wherein the first display portion is adjacent to the first panel portion, and the second display portion is adjacent to the second panel portion.

[0052] In one or more embodiments, each of the plurality of hinge linkages may include a first deflector to prevent movement in the linear position and a second deflector to prevent movement in the deployed position.

[0053] In one or more embodiments, the plurality of hinge linkages may include an elongated bend linkage having a first end pinned to a first frame portion, an intermediate member configured to extend over a flexible panel portion and at least a portion of a second panel portion, and a second end pinned to the second frame portion at a slot, wherein the second frame portion extends over only a portion of the second panel portion.

[0054] In one or more embodiments, the elongated curved linkage mechanism may be configured to engage the flexible panel portion in the deployed position and disengage the flexible panel portion in the straight position.

[0055] In one or more embodiments, the plurality of hinge linkages may include: a bent linkage pinned to a first frame portion, extending through a flexible panel portion and pinned to a second frame portion at a slot; a first straight lug rigidly extending from the first panel portion through at least a portion of the flexible panel portion; and a second straight lug rigidly extending from the second panel portion through at least a portion of the flexible panel portion; wherein, in a straight position, the first straight lug and the second straight lug engage the flexible panel portion, and in a deployed position, the bent linkage engages the flexible panel portion.

[0056] In one or more embodiments, the plurality of hinge linkages may include a scissor-type mechanism.

[0057] In one or more embodiments, the scissor-type mechanism may include: a plurality of struts extending from behind the flexible panel portion, each of the plurality of struts having a pivot point at its free end; a plurality of first linkage mechanisms extending from the pivot point at a first end and connected to an adjacent first linkage mechanism at a second end; and a plurality of second linkage mechanisms extending from the second end of the first linkage mechanism at a third end and connected to an adjacent second linkage mechanism at a fourth end.

[0058] In yet another example, a display assembly for an automotive interior includes: a dynamically bendable cover panel including a first panel portion, a second panel portion, and a flexible panel portion connecting the first panel portion and the second panel portion; a display adjacent to the first panel portion and the second panel portion; and a frame supporting the dynamically bendable cover panel, the frame including a first frame portion for supporting the first panel portion, a second frame portion for supporting the second panel portion, and a sliding hinge mechanism connecting the first frame portion and the second frame portion. In one or more embodiments, the display includes more than one display screen. In one or more embodiments, the display includes a first display screen and a second display screen, wherein the first display portion is adjacent to the first panel portion, and the second display portion is adjacent to the second panel portion.

[0059] In one or more embodiments, the sliding hinge mechanism may include: a first set of guide rails extending from a first frame portion; a second set of guide rails extending from a second frame portion; wherein the first set of guide rails and the second set of guide rails include a hinge portion; wherein the first set of guide rails can slide freely along the second set of guide rails.

[0060] This summary is intended to provide an overview of the subject matter of this patent application. It is not intended to provide an exclusive or exhaustive explanation of the present invention. Specific embodiments are included to provide further information about this patent application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0061] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle interior having a vehicle interior system utilizing a display having a cover substrate with a deformable hinge, as herein referred to Figure 4A-15 Discussed in detail.

[0062] Figure 2A and 2B A perspective front view of an automotive interior display system having a dynamically flexible cover substrate in a deployed or deflected position relative to a straight or extended position is shown.

[0063] Figure 3A is a perspective view of a dynamically flexible automotive interior display system including a cover substrate, a frame, and an electronic display panel.

[0064] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A An exploded view of the company's dynamically bendable interior display system.

[0065] Figure 4A and 4B are side schematic views of a cover substrate attached to a frame having a first embodiment of a living hinge including a geometric relief cutout in straight and curved configurations, respectively.

[0066] Figure 5A and 5B are side schematic views of a cover substrate attached to a frame having a second embodiment of a living hinge including a double locking feature in straight and bent configurations, respectively.

[0067] Fig. 6A and 6B are side schematic views of a cover substrate attached to a frame having a third embodiment of a living hinge including patterned relief cuts in straight and curved configurations, respectively.

[0068] Figure 6C yes Fig. 6A and 6B A top view of the cover substrate.

[0069] Fig. 7A and 7B are side schematic views of a cover substrate attached to a frame having a fourth embodiment of a living hinge including a variable thickness flex region in straight and bent configurations, respectively.

[0070] Fig. 8A and 8B is a side schematic view of a cover substrate attached to a frame having a fifth embodiment of a living hinge including a bending mandrel in straight and bent configurations, respectively.

[0071] Fig. 9A and 9B is a side schematic view of a cover substrate attached to a frame having a sixth embodiment of a living hinge including a sliding wedge in straight and curved configurations, respectively.

[0072] Fig. 10A and 10B are side schematic views of a cover substrate attached to a frame having a first embodiment of a link hinge including interlocking links in straight and curved configurations, respectively.

[0073] Fig. 10C yes Fig. 10B A cross-sectional view of a frame showing the suspended bend stops of the interlocking links.

[0074] Fig.11A and 11B are side schematic views of a cover substrate attached to a frame having a second embodiment of a link hinge including a rigid curved pivot arm in straight and curved configurations, respectively.

[0075] Fig. 12A and 12B are side schematic views of a cover substrate attached to a frame having a third embodiment of a link hinge including a rigid curved pivot arm and a curved stop lug in a straight and curved configuration, respectively.

[0076] Fig.13A and 13B is a side schematic view of a cover substrate attached to a frame having a fourth embodiment of a link hinge including a constrained linkage in straight and bent configurations, respectively.

[0077] Fig.14A and 14B are side schematic views of a cover substrate attached to a frame having a first embodiment of a sliding hinge including a slide plate, in straight and curved configurations, respectively.

[0078] Fig. 14C and 14D yes Fig.14A and 14B Alternative cross-sectional view of a slide plate.

[0079] Fig.15 is a side schematic diagram of a cover substrate attached to a frame with a damper attached to it.

[0080] In the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, similar reference numerals may describe similar components in different views. Similar reference numerals with different letter suffixes may represent different instances of similar components. The accompanying drawings generally illustrate various embodiments discussed herein by way of example and not limitation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0081] Figure 1A vehicle interior 10 is shown including three different vehicle interior systems 12, 14, and 16 according to various examples. The vehicle interior system 12 includes a center console base 18 having a curved surface 20, which includes a display, shown as a curved display 22. The vehicle interior system 14 includes an instrument panel base 24 having a curved surface 26, which includes a curved display 28. The instrument panel base 24 generally includes an instrument panel 30 (or center console, not shown), which may also include a curved display. The vehicle interior system 16 includes an instrument panel steering wheel base 32 having a curved surface 34 and a curved display 36. In one or more embodiments, the vehicle interior system may include a base that is an armrest, pillar, seat back, floor, headrest, door panel, or any portion of the vehicle interior that includes a curved surface.

[0082] The surfaces and curved surfaces of the vehicle interior systems 12, 14, and 16 may include various electronic displays for which it is desirable to meet head form impact test (HIT) requirements and to be repositionable, for example, for different sized users or different numbers of users within the vehicle.

[0083] Figure 2A and 2B A perspective front view of a dynamically bendable automotive interior display system 100 is shown, where a cover substrate has a cold bend portion and is dynamically bent from a straight or extended position to a deployed or deflected position. In an example, the deployed position can produce a constant radius of curvature between the straight portions. The constant radius of curvature can result in a circular cold bend portion. However, in other examples, the cold bend portion can have other curved shapes, such as a parabola.

[0084] like Figure 2A As shown, the system 100 includes a cover substrate 102 and a frame 104, wherein the cover substrate 102 can be dynamically bent along a bending axis BA with a radius of curvature, and the frame 104 is located behind the cover substrate 102 to support the cover substrate 102 and the electronic devices mounted thereon. On one side of the bending axis BA, a first display electronic device 106A can be disposed under a first side of the cover substrate 102, and on the other side of the bending axis BA, a second display electronic device 106B can be disposed under a second side of the cover substrate 102.

[0085] It is desirable that the bending axis BA produces a radius of curvature that is maintained at all stages of bending between the first display electronics 106A and the second display electronics 106B. For example, in a straight configuration where both the display electronics 106A and 106B are pushed back against the instrument panel base 108, there will be no radius of curvature. However, as one of the display electronics 106A and 106B moves forward from the instrument panel base 108, a small radius of curvature will be formed between the display electronics 106A and 106B. Initially, the arc length of the radius of curvature will be small. However, as one of the display electronics 106A and 106B moves further away from the instrument panel base 108, the arc length will grow, but will have the same radius of curvature. The present disclosure describes a support device that can be located behind the cover substrate 102 to affect the bending of the cover substrate 102 about the bending axis BA, such as bending with a constant radius of curvature or some other curvature including a parabola, while providing sufficient support to meet the HIT requirements. The present application is described with reference to a dynamically bendable display that can produce circular curved portions. However, it should be understood that the mechanisms described herein can be adapted to produce other curved shapes.

[0086] Figure 3A is a perspective view of a dynamically bendable automotive interior display system 300 that includes a cover substrate 301 , a frame 302 , and display electronics 303A and 303B. Figure 3B yes Figure 3A An exploded view of a dynamically bendable automotive interior display system 300 is also discussed. Figure 3A and 3B . Frame 302 may include a first frame portion 304A, a second frame portion 304B, and a hinge portion 306. Display electronics assembly 303A may include a display screen 308A and a support plate 310A. Display electronics assembly 303B may include a display screen 308B and a support plate 310B. Without being bound by theory, system 300 may include a single display electronics assembly that includes a single or multiple support plates. As used herein, a "display" includes a visual display with or without touch functionality, a touch panel, or a combination thereof. The display may be flat or curved, as defined herein relative to the first and second panels (312A, 312B).

[0087] The cover substrate 301 may include a first panel portion 312A, a second panel portion 312B, and a flexible panel portion 314. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 312A and the second panel portion 312B may be flat or substantially flat, for example, having a radius of curvature greater than 10,000 mm, greater than 15,000 mm, or greater than 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 312A and the second panel portion 312B may be curved, for example, having a radius of curvature less than or equal to 10,000 mm, less than or equal to 15,000 mm, or less than or equal to 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 312A and the second panel portion 312B may be cold formed and bent, hot formed and bent, or cold formed and hot formed and bent. The frame 302 may further include a first cutout 316A for the first display electronic device panel and a second cutout 316B for the second display electronic device panel. For example, as relative to Figure 2A and 2B As shown in the interior of the automobile of FIG. 8 , the frame 302 may extend from a top edge 318 to a bottom edge 320 , and from a left side 322 to a right side 324 .

[0088] The cover substrate 301 may include an inorganic material, and may include an amorphous substrate, a crystalline substrate or a combination thereof. The cover substrate may be formed by artificial materials and / or naturally occurring materials (e.g., quartz and polymers). For example, in some cases, the features of the cover substrate may be organic, and may be specifically polymeric. Examples of suitable polymers include, but are not limited to, thermoplastics, including polystyrene (PS) (including styrene copolymers and blends), polycarbonate (PC) (including copolymers and blends), polyesters (including copolymers and blends, including polyethylene terephthalate and polyethylene terephthalate copolymers), polyolefins (PO) and cyclic polyolefins (cyclic PO), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), acrylic polymers, including polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) (including copolymers and blends), thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU), polyetherimide (PEI) and blends of these polymers with each other. Other exemplary polymers include epoxy resins, styrene resins, phenolic resins, melamine resins and silicone resins.

[0089] In some specific embodiments, the covering substrate may specifically not include a polymer, plastic and / or metal substrate. In one or more embodiments, the covering substrate may be combined with a polymer, plastic or metal substrate to form a laminate. In one or more embodiments, the substrate exhibits a refractive index in the range of about 1.45 to about 1.55. In a specific embodiment, the covering substrate may exhibit an average strain damage of 0.5% or more, 0.6% or more, 0.7% or more, 0.8% or more, 0.9% or more, 1% or more, 1.1% or more, 1.2% or more, 1.3% or more, 1.4% or more, 1.5% or more, or even 2% or more on the surface of one or more relative major surfaces, as measured using a ball-to-ring test, using at least 5, at least 10, at least 15 or at least 20 samples. In specific embodiments, the cover substrate may exhibit an average strain damage of about 1.2%, about 1.4%, about 1.6%, about 1.8%, about 2.2%, about 2.4%, about 2.6%, about 2.8%, or about 3% or more on the surface of one or more opposing major surfaces.

[0090] Suitable cover substrates may exhibit an elastic modulus (or Young's modulus) in the range of about 30 GPa to about 120 GPa. In some cases, the elastic modulus of the substrate may be in the range of about 30 GPa to about 110 GPa, about 30 GPa to about 100 GPa, about 30 GPa to about 90 GPa, about 30 GPa to about 80 GPa, about 30 GPa to about 70 GPa, about 40 GPa to about 120 GPa, about 50 GPa to about 120 GPa, about 60 GPa to about 120 GPa, about 70 GPa to about 120 GPa, and all ranges and sub-ranges therebetween.

[0091] In one or more embodiments, the cover substrate may include an amorphous substrate, and the amorphous substrate may include a glass substrate. The glass substrate may be strengthened or non-strengthened. Examples of suitable glass composition types for forming glass products include soda-lime glass, alkali aluminosilicate glass, alkali-containing borosilicate glass, and alkali aluminoborosilicate glass. In one or more alternative embodiments, the cover substrate may include a crystalline substrate such as a glass ceramic substrate (which may be strengthened or non-strengthened), or may include a single crystal structure such as sapphire. In one or more specific embodiments, the cover substrate includes an amorphous substrate (e.g., glass) and a crystalline coating (e.g., a sapphire layer, a polycrystalline alumina layer, and / or a spinel (MgAl2O4) layer).

[0092] The cover substrate may be substantially optically transparent, transparent and free of light scattering. In such embodiments, the cover substrate may exhibit an average transmittance of about 85% or greater, about 86% or greater, about 87% or greater, about 88% or greater, about 89% or greater, about 90% or greater, about 91% or greater, or about 92% or greater in the optical wavelength range. In one or more alternative embodiments, the cover substrate may be opaque or exhibit an average transmittance of less than about 10%, less than about 9%, less than about 8%, less than about 7%, less than about 6%, less than about 5%, less than about 4%, less than about 3%, less than about 2%, less than about 1% or less than about 0% in the optical wavelength range. In some embodiments, these transmittance values ​​are total transmittance values ​​(considering the transmittance through the two main surfaces of the substrate). The substrate 110 may optionally present a color such as white, black, red, blue, green, yellow, orange, etc.

[0093] In one or more embodiments, the covering substrate has a thickness (t) of about 2 mm or less or about 1.5 mm or less. In one or more embodiments, the thickness of the covering substrate is substantially uniform because the bending axis has substantially the same thickness as the other parts of the covering substrate. For example, the thickness of the covering substrate does not vary by more than ±10%, 5%, or 2% over the total surface area of ​​the first major surface, the second major surface, or the first major surface and the second major surface. In one or more embodiments, the thickness is substantially constant (within ±1% of the average thickness) over 90%, 95%, or 99% of the total surface area of ​​the first major surface, the second major surface, or the first major surface and the second major surface.

[0094] In one or more embodiments, the cover substrate may be a strengthened glass substrate exhibiting a compressive stress (CS) region extending from one or both major surfaces to a first compression depth (DOC) measured from the major surface. The CS region includes a maximum CS magnitude (CSmax). The strengthened cover glass substrate has a CT region disposed in a central region, the CT region extending from the DOC to the opposite CS region. The CT region defines a maximum CT magnitude (CTmax). The CS region and the CT region define a stress distribution extending along the thickness of the cover glass substrate.

[0095] In one or more embodiments, the mismatch in thermal expansion coefficients between portions of the substrate can be used to mechanically strengthen the cover glass substrate to produce a region of compressive stress and a central region exhibiting tensile stress. In some embodiments, the cover glass substrate can be thermally strengthened by heating the glass to a temperature above the glass transition point and then rapidly quenching.

[0096] In one or more embodiments, the cover glass substrate can be chemically strengthened by ion exchange. During the ion exchange process, ions at or near the surface of the cover glass substrate are replaced or exchanged with larger ions having the same valence or oxidation state. In embodiments where the cover glass substrate includes an alkali-containing glass, the ions and larger ions in the surface layer of the article are monovalent alkali metal cations, such as Li+, Na+, K+, Rb+, and Cs+. Alternatively, the monovalent cations in the surface layer can be replaced by monovalent cations other than alkali metal cations (such as Ag+, etc.). In such an embodiment, the monovalent ions (or cations) exchanged into the cover glass substrate generate stress.

[0097] In one or more embodiments, the CSmax of the cover glass substrate is about 900 MPa or greater, about 920 MPa or greater, about 940 MPa or greater, about 950 MPa or greater, about 960 MPa or greater, about 980 MPa or greater, about 1000 MPa or greater, about 1020 MPa or greater, about 1040 MPa or greater, about 1050 MPa or greater, about 1060 MPa or greater, about 1080 MPa or greater, about 1100 MPa or greater, about 1120 MPa or greater, about 1140 MPa or greater, about 1150 MPa or greater, about 1180 MPa or greater, about 1200 MPa or greater, about 1220 MPa or greater, about 1240 MPa or greater, about 1250 MPa or greater, about 1260 MPa or greater, about 1280 MPa or greater, or about 1300 MPa or greater.In one or more embodiments, CSmax is between about 900 MPa and about 1500 MPa, about 920 MPa and about 1500 MPa, about 940 MPa and about 1500 MPa, about 950 MPa and about 1500 MPa, about 960 MPa and about 1500 MPa, about 980 MPa and about 1500 MPa, about 1000 MPa and about 1500 MPa, about 1020 MPa and about 1500 MPa, about 1040 MPa and about 1500 MPa, about 1050 MPa and about 1500 MPa, about 1060 MPa and about 1500 MPa, about 1080 MPa and about 1500 MPa, about 1100 MPa and about 1500 MPa. a, about 1120 MPa to about 1500 MPa, about 1140 MPa to about 1500 MPa, about 1150 MPa to about 1500 MPa, about 1160 MPa to about 1500 MPa, about 1180 MPa to about 1500 MPa, about 1200 MPa to about 1500 MPa, about 1220 MPa to about 1500 MPa, about 1240 to about 1500 MPa, about 1250 MPa to about 1500 MPa, about 1260 MPa to about 1500 MPa, about 1280 MPa to about 1500 MPa, about 1300 MPa to about 1500 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1480 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1460 MPa, about 1500 MPa to about 1500 MPa, about 1500 MPa to about 1500 MPa, about 1500 MPa to about 1500 MPa, about 1500 MPa to about 1500 MPa, about 1500 MPa to about 1500 MPa, about 1500 MPa to about 1500 MPa 0 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1450 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1440 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1420 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1400 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1380 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1360 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1350 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1340 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1320 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1300 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1280 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1260 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1250 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1240 MPa, In the range of about 900 MPa to about 1220 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1210 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1200 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1180 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1160 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1150 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1140 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1120 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1100 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1080 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1060 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1050 MPa, about 950 MPa to about 1050 MPa, or about 1000 MPa to about 1050 MPa.CSmax may be measured at the major surface or may be obtained within the CS region at a certain depth from the major surface.

[0098] In one or more embodiments, the cover glass substrate has a stress distribution (CS10) with a CS magnitude of 800 MPa or greater at a depth of about 10 microns within the glass substrate from one or both sides. In one or more embodiments, the CS10 is about 810 MPa or greater, about 820 MPa or greater, about 830 MPa or greater, about 840 MPa or greater, about 850 MPa or greater, about 860 MPa or greater, about 870 MPa or greater, about 880 MPa or greater, about 890 MPa or greater, or about 900 MPa or greater. In one or more embodiments, CS10 is in a range from about 800 MPa to about 1000 MPa, about 825 MPa to about 1000 MPa, about 850 MPa to about 1000 MPa, about 875 MPa to about 1000 MPa, about 900 MPa to about 1000 MPa, about 925 MPa to about 1000 MPa, about 950 MPa to about 1000 MPa, about 800 MPa to about 975 MPa, about 800 MPa to about 950 MPa, about 800 MPa to about 925 MPa, about 800 MPa to about 900 MPa, about 800 MPa to about 875 MPa, or about 800 MPa to about 850 MPa.

[0099] In one or more embodiments, the glass substrate has a stress distribution (CS5) of CS magnitude of 700 MPa or greater, or about 750 MPa or greater, at a depth of the glass substrate of about 5 microns from one or both sides from the first major surface. In one or more embodiments, CS5 is about 760 MPa or greater, about 770 MPa or greater, about 775 MPa or greater, about 780 MPa or greater, about 790 MPa or greater, about 800 MPa or greater, about 810 MPa or greater, about 820 MPa or greater, about 825 MPa or greater, or about 830 MPa or greater. In one or more embodiments, CS5 is in a range from about 700 MPa to about 900 MPa, about 725 MPa to about 900 MPa, about 750 MPa to about 900 MPa, about 775 MPa to about 900 MPa, about 800 MPa to about 900 MPa, about 825 MPa to about 900 MPa, about 850 MPa to about 900 MPa, about 700 MPa to about 875 MPa, about 700 MPa to about 850 MPa, about 700 MPa to about 825 MPa, about 700 MPa to about 800 MPa, about 700 MPa to about 775 MPa, about 750 MPa to about 800 MPa, about 750 MPa to about 850 MPa, or about 700 MPa to about 750 MPa.

[0100] In one or more embodiments, the CTmax value is about 80 MPa or less, about 78 MPa or less, about 76 MPa or less, about 75 MPa or less, about 74 MPa or less, about 72 MPa or less, about 70 MPa or less, about 68 MPa or less, about 66 MPa or less, about 65 MPa or less, about 64 MPa or less, about 62 MPa or less, about 60 MPa or less, about 58 MPa or less, about 56 MPa or less, about 55 MPa or less, about 54 MPa or less, about 52 MPa or less, or about 50 MPa or less. In one or more embodiments, the CTmax value is in the range of about 40 MPa to about 80 MPa, about 45 MPa to about 80 MPa, about 50 MPa to about 80 MPa, about 55 MPa to about 80 MPa, about 60 MPa to about 80 MPa, about 65 MPa to about 80 MPa, about 70 MPa to about 80 MPa, about 40 MPa to about 75 MPa, about 40 MPa to about 70 MPa, about 40 MPa to about 65 MPa, about 40 MPa to about 60 MPa, about 40 MPa to about 55 MPa, or about 40 MPa to about 50 MPa.

[0101] In one or more embodiments, the DOC of the cover glass substrate is about 0.2×thickness (0.2×t) of the glass substrate or less. For example, the DOC may be about 0.18t or less, about 0.16t or less, about 0.15t or less, about 0.14t or less, about 0.12t or less, about 0.1t or less, about 0.08t or less, about 0.06t or less, about 0.05t or less, about 0.04t or less, or about 0.03t or less. In one or more embodiments, the DOC is about 0.02t to about 0.2t, about 0.04t to about 0.2t, about 0.05t to about 0.2t, about 0.06t to about 0.2t, about 0.08t to about 0.2t, about 0.1t to about 0.2t, about 0.12t to about 0.2t, about 0.14t to about 0.2t, about 0.15t to about 0.2t, about 0.16t to about 0.2t, about 0.02t to about 0.18t , about 0.02t to about 0.16t, about 0.02t to about 0.15t, about 0.02t to about 0.14t, about 0.02t to about 0.12t, about 0.02t to about 0.1t, about 0.02t to about 0.08t, about 0.02t to about 0.06t, about 0.02t to about 0.05t, about 0.1t to about 0.8t, about 0.12t to about 0.16t, or about 0.14t to about 0.17t.

[0102] In one or more embodiments, the cover glass substrate may be unstrengthened. In some embodiments, the unstrengthened glass comprises annealed glass.

[0103] Exemplary compositions for such glass substrates may include soda-lime-silicate glass compositions, aluminosilicate glass compositions, or alkali aluminosilicate glass compositions.

[0104] The cover glass substrate may have a thickness in the range of about 0.1 mm to about 6 mm or in the range of about 0.1 mm to about 1.5 mm. For example, the cover glass substrate may have a thickness greater than about 0.125 mm (eg, about 0.13 mm or greater).In one or more embodiments, the cover glass substrate may have a thickness of about 0.01 mm to about 1.5 mm, 0.02 mm to about 1.5 mm, 0.03 mm to about 1.5 mm, 0.04 mm to about 1.5 mm, 0.05 mm to about 1.5 mm, 0.06 mm to about 1.5 mm, 0.07 mm to about 1.5 mm, 0.08 mm to about 1.5 mm, 0.09 mm to about 1.5 mm, 0.1 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.15 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.2 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.25 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.3 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.35 mm to about 1.5 mm, or about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm. about 1.5 mm, about 0.4 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.45 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.55 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.6 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.65 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.7 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.01 mm to about 1.4 mm, about 0.01 mm to about 1.3 mm, about 0.01 mm to about 1.2 mm, about 0.01 mm to about 1.1 mm, about 0.01 mm to about 1.05 mm, about 0.01 mm to about 1 mm, about 0.01 mm to about 0.95 mm, about 0.01 mm to about 0.9 mm, about 0.01 mm to about 0.85 mm, about 0.01 mm to about 0.8 mm, about 0.01 mm to about 0.75 mm, about 0.01 mm to about 0.7 mm, about 0.01 mm to about 0.65 mm, about 0.01 mm to about 0.6 mm, about 0.01 mm to about 0.55 mm, about 0.01 mm to about 0.5 mm, about 0.01 mm to about 0.4 mm, about 0.01 mm to about 0.3 mm, about 0.01 mm to about 0.2 mm, about 0.01 mm to about 0.1 mm, about 0.04 mm to about 0.07 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 1.4 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 1.3 mm, about 0. .1mm to about 1.2mm, about 0.1mm to about 1.1mm, about 0.1mm to about 1.05mm, about 0.1mm to about 1mm, about 0.1mm to about 0.95mm, about 0.1mm to about 0.9mm, about 0.1mm to about 0.85mm, about 0.1mm to about 0.8mm, about 0.1mm to about 0.75mm, about 0.1mm to about 0.7mm, about 0.1mm to about 0.65mm, about 0.1mm to about 0.6, about 0.1mm to about 0.55mm, about 0.1mm to about 0.5mm, about 0.1mm to about 0.4mm, or about 0.3mm to about 0.7mm.

[0105] In one or more embodiments, the width of the cover glass substrate is about 5 cm to about 250 cm, about 10 cm to about 250 cm, about 15 cm to about 250 cm, about 20 cm to about 250 cm, about 25 cm to about 250 cm, about 30 cm to about 250 cm, about 35 cm to about 250 cm, about 40 cm to about 250 cm, about 45 cm to about 250 cm, about 50 cm to about 250 cm, about 55 cm to about 250 cm, about 60 cm to about 250 cm, about 65 cm to about 250 cm, about 70 cm to about 250 cm, about 75 cm to about 250 cm, about 80 cm to about 250 cm, about 85 cm to about 250 cm, about 90 cm to about 250 cm, about 95 cm to about 250 cm, about 100 cm to about 250 cm, about 110 cm to about 250 cm, about 120 cm to about 250 cm, about 130 cm to about 250 cm, about 140 cm to about 250 cm, about 150 cm to about 250 cm, about 160 cm to about 250 cm, about 170 cm to about 250 cm, about 180 cm to about 250 cm, about 190 cm to about 250 cm, about 195 cm to about 250 cm, about 100 cm to about 250 cm, about 110 cm to about 250 cm, about 1 In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a method of increasing the length of the optical disk and the optical disk of the optical disk. The method comprises: providing a method of increasing the length of the optical disk and the optical disk of the optical disk to a plurality of optical disks. The method comprises: providing a method of increasing the length of the optical disk and the optical disk of the optical disk to a plurality of optical disks. The method comprises: providing a method of increasing the length of the optical disk and the optical disk of the optical disk to a plurality of optical disks.

[0106] In one or more embodiments, the length of the cover glass substrate is about 5 cm to about 250 cm, about 10 cm to about 250 cm, about 15 cm to about 250 cm, about 20 cm to about 250 cm, about 25 cm to about 250 cm, about 30 cm to about 250 cm, about 35 cm to about 250 cm, about 40 cm to about 250 cm, about 45 cm to about 250 cm, about 50 cm to about 250 cm, about 55 cm to about 250 cm, about 60 cm to about 250 cm, about 65 cm to about 250 cm, about 70 cm to about 250 cm, about 75 cm to about 250 cm, about 80 cm to about 250 cm, about 85 cm to about 250 cm, about 90 cm to about 250 cm, about 95 cm to about 250 cm, about 100 cm to about 250 cm, about 110 cm to about 250 cm, about 120 cm to about 250 cm, about 130 cm to about 250 cm, about 140 cm to about 250 cm, about 150 cm to about 250 cm, about 160 cm to about 250 cm, about 170 cm to about 250 cm, about 180 cm to about 250 cm, about 190 cm to about 250 cm, about 195 cm to about 250 cm, about 100 cm to about 250 cm, about 110 cm to about 250 cm, about 1 In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a method of increasing the length of the optical disk and the optical disk of the optical disk. The method comprises: providing a method of increasing the length of the optical disk and the optical disk of the optical disk to a plurality of optical disks. The method comprises: providing a method of increasing the length of the optical disk and the optical disk of the optical disk to a plurality of optical disks. The method comprises: providing a method of increasing the length of the optical disk and the optical disk of the optical disk to a plurality of optical disks.

[0107] In some embodiments, the cover glass substrate may be or include a relatively thin steel laminate or other thin laminated product. The substrate may be coated, decorated or otherwise pre-treated in addition or alternatively. In one or more embodiments, one or two of the relative major surfaces of the cover glass substrate include surface treatment. The surface treatment may cover at least a portion of one or two major surfaces. Exemplary surface treatments include easy-to-clean surfaces, anti-glare surfaces, anti-reflection surfaces, tactile surfaces, and decorative surfaces. In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of the major surfaces may include any one, any two, or all three of the anti-glare surfaces, anti-reflection surfaces, tactile surfaces, and decorative surfaces. For example, one major surface may include an anti-glare surface, and another relative major surface may include an anti-reflection surface. In another example, one major surface includes any one or two of the anti-glare surface and the anti-reflection surface, and the other major surface includes a decorative surface.

[0108] The anti-glare surface can be formed using an etching process and can exhibit a transmission haze of 20% or less (e.g., about 15% or less, or about 10% or less), and an image distinctiveness (DOI) of about 80 or less. As used herein, the terms "transmission haze" and "haze" refer to the percentage of transmitted light that is scattered outside an angular cone of about ±2.5° according to ASTM procedure D1003. For optically smooth surfaces, the transmission haze is typically close to zero. As used herein, the term "image distinctiveness" is defined by Method A of ASTM Procedure D5767 (ASTM 5767), entitled "Standard Test Methods for Instrumental Measurements of Distinctness-of-Image Gloss of Coating Surfaces," the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. According to Method A of ASTM 5767, substrate reflectance measurements are made on the anti-glare surface at a mirror viewing angle and at an angle slightly deviating from the mirror viewing angle. The values ​​obtained from these measurements are combined to provide a DOI value. In particular, DOI is calculated according to the following equation

[0109]

[0110] Wherein, Ros is the average relative reflection intensity between 0.2° and 0.4° from the specular reflection direction, and Rs is the average relative reflection intensity in the specular direction (between +0.05° and -0.05° centered on the specular reflection direction). If the input light source angle is +20° to the sample surface normal (as in the entire disclosure), and the sample surface normal is 0°, the measurement of the specular reflected light Rs is taken as the average value in the range of about -19.95° to -20.05°, and Ros is taken as the average reflection intensity in the range of about -20.2° to -20.4° (or -19.6° to -19.8°, or the average of these two ranges). As used herein, the DOI value should be directly interpreted as specifying the Ros / Rs target ratio defined herein. In some embodiments, the anti-glare surface has a reflective scattering profile such that >95% of the reflected light power is contained in a cone of + / -10°, where the cone is centered on the specular reflection direction for any input angle.

[0111] The resulting anti-glare surface may include a textured surface having a plurality of concave features having openings facing outward from the surface. The openings may have an average cross-sectional size of about 30 microns or less. In one or more embodiments, the anti-glare surface exhibits low flicker (in terms of a low pixel power deviation reference or PPDr), for example a PPDr of about 6% or less. As used herein, the terms "pixel power deviation reference" and "PPDr" refer to a quantitative measurement of display flicker. Unless otherwise specified, the PPDr is measured using a display device including an edge-emitting liquid crystal display (twisted nematic liquid crystal display) having a native sub-pixel pitch of 60 μm × 180 μm and a sub-pixel opening window size of about 44 μm × about 142 μm. The front surface of the liquid crystal display has a glossy anti-reflective linear polarizing film. In order to determine the PPDr of a display system or an anti-glare surface that forms part of a display system, the screen is placed in the focal area of ​​an "eye simulator" camera that approximates the observer's eye parameters. Thus, the camera system comprises an aperture (or "pupil aperture") inserted into the optical path to adjust the collection angle of the light, thus approximating the aperture of the pupil of the human eye. In the PPDr measurements described herein, the iris aperture subtended an angle of 18 milliradians.

[0112] The anti-reflection surface can be formed by a multilayer coating stack formed by alternating layers of high refractive index materials and low refractive index materials. Such a coating stack may include 6 or more layers. In one or more embodiments, the anti-reflection surface may exhibit a single-sided average light reflectance of about 2% or less (e.g., about 1.5% or less, about 1% or less, about 0.75% or less, about 0.5% or less, or about 0.25% or less) in an optical wavelength region ranging from about 400nm to about 800nm. The average reflectance is measured at an incident illumination angle greater than about 0 degrees to less than about 10 degrees.

[0113] The decorative surface may include any aesthetic design formed by a pigment (e.g., ink, paint, etc.), and may include a wood grain design, a brushed metal design, a graphic design, a portrait, or a logo. In one or more embodiments, the decorative surface exhibits a hollow front effect, wherein the decorative surface masks or obscures the display below when the display is turned off so that the viewer cannot see the display, but allows viewing of the display when the display is turned on. The decorative surface may be printed onto a cover glass substrate. In one or more embodiments, the anti-glare surface includes an etched surface. In one or more embodiments, the anti-reflective surface includes a multi-layer coating. In one or more embodiments, the easy-to-clean surface includes an oleophobic coating that imparts anti-fingerprint properties. In one or more embodiments, the tactile surface includes a raised or recessed surface formed by depositing a polymer or glass material on the surface to provide tactile feedback to the user when touched.

[0114] In one or more embodiments, a surface treatment (i.e., an easy-to-clean surface, an anti-glare surface, an anti-reflective surface, a tactile surface, and / or a decorative surface) is disposed on at least a portion of the periphery of the major surface, and the interior of the major surface is substantially free of surface treatment.

[0115] Considering the above characteristics, the cover substrate 301 can be configured to be curved. The frame 302 supports the cover substrate 301 to induce curvature in the flexible panel portion 314. According to the present application, the hinge portion 306 can be configured to induce a continuous curved shape, such as a single radius of curvature, in the flexible panel portion 314, presenting a smooth, aesthetically pleasing appearance. Note that Figure 3A and 3B Shown includes Fig. 12A and 12B The hinge portion 306 of the embodiment is similar to the pinned hinge configuration. However, referring to Figure 4A-15 Any of the described framework structures may be used for display system 300. Figure 4A-15 The various frames and cover substrates described may be used with any of the displays or panels described herein, such as display 22, display 28, display 36, and display system 100. Frame 302 and any of the frames described herein, including frames 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, and 1400, may be made of a material of appropriate strength, such as steel, aluminum, plastic, etc., to provide support and meet HIT requirements.

[0116] Figure 4A and 4B4 is a side view of a frame 400 having a living hinge of a first embodiment in a straight and curved configuration, respectively, the living hinge including a geometric relief cutout 402. The frame 400 may include a first frame portion 404A, a second frame portion 404B, and a hinge portion 406. The frame 400 may be attached to a cover substrate 410. The cover substrate 410 may include a first panel portion 412A, a second panel portion 412B, and a flexible panel portion 414. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 412A and the second panel portion 412B may be flat or substantially flat, for example, having a radius of curvature greater than 10,000 mm, greater than 15,000 mm, or greater than 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 412A and the second panel portion 412B may be curved, for example, having a radius of curvature less than or equal to 10,000 mm, less than or equal to 15,000 mm, or less than or equal to 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 412A and the second panel portion 412B may be cold formed and bent, hot formed and bent, or cold formed and hot formed and bent.

[0117] The geometric relief cut 402 may include a longitudinal slot including a flat slot 416, an abutment surface 418, and a connection surface 420. The geometric relief cut 402 may be perpendicular to the axis A from the top edge 318 ( Figure 3B ) to the bottom edge 320( Figure 3B ) extends through frame 400 to Figure 4A and 4B The geometric relief cutouts 402 can result in the frame 400 having a plurality of pedestals 422 extending longitudinally (top to bottom) across the cover substrate 410 to provide support for the flexible panel portion 414.

[0118] The geometric relief cutout 402 includes a weakened portion of the frame 400 adjacent to the flexible panel portion 414. The weakened portion allows the flexible panel portion 414 to bend more easily along a predetermined arc so that the second frame portion 404B can be hinged relative to the first frame portion 404A at an angle α. In an example, the angle α can be in the range of about twenty degrees to about ninety degrees. Figure 4A and 4B As shown, the geometric relief cut 402 removes material from the frame 400 of thickness t perpendicular to the axis A. In an example, the thickness t can be reduced in the range of about fifty percent to about ninety-seven percent. In one example, the thickness t is reduced from 10 mm to 0.29 mm. However, the thickness t of the groove 416 and the presence of the base 422 provide sufficient support for the cover substrate 410 to prevent crushing and meet the HIT requirements.

[0119] exist Figure 4A In a straight or extended configuration, the groove 416 is flat and extends along the axis A parallel to the front surface of the panel portion 412A-412C, and the abutment surface 418 extends perpendicular to the front surface of the panel portion 412A-412C. The groove 416 can be flat to facilitate uniform bending. The groove 416 can have other shapes, such as concave or convex. However, the inventors have found that the flat groove 416 is effective in creating a constant radius of curvature R1 between the frame portions 404A and 404B, while also avoiding stress concentration that may occur in other shapes. When the frame 400 moves from a straight position to a deployment position where the second frame portion 404B is positioned at an angle α relative to the first frame portion 404A, the groove 416 can become curved.

[0120] The abutment surface 418 may be flat to provide a large contact area for distributing bending forces. Although in other examples, the abutment surface 418 need not be flat. Likewise, the abutment surface 418 need not be perpendicular to the axis A, such as flat or curved. The connection surface 420 may have any shape. A flat connection surface 420 facilitates manufacturing.

[0121] When the second frame portion 404B is pushed to Figure 4B In the fully retracted position shown, the bases 422 contact each other to provide rigidity to the frame 400 for supporting the cover substrate 410, while thinned portions of the slot 416 are formed between the bases 422 to allow the flexible panel portion 414 to bend easily.

[0122] Instead of creating a constant radius of curvature R1 along the hinge portion 406, the relief cutout 402 can be configured to create other curved shapes, such as a parabola, by varying the thickness of the groove 416. For example, the groove 416 near the center of the hinge portion 406 can be thicker or thinner than the groove 416 near the frame portions 404A and 404B to create a gradient in the groove height.

[0123] Figure 5A and 5B is a side schematic illustration of a cover substrate 500 having a second embodiment of a living hinge including a dual locking feature 502 in a straight and curved configuration, respectively.

[0124] The frame 500 may include a first frame portion 504A, a second frame portion 504B, and a hinge portion 506. The frame 500 may be attached to a cover substrate 510. The cover substrate 510 may include a first panel portion 512A, a second panel portion 512B, and a flexible panel portion 514. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 512A and the second panel portion 512B may be flat or substantially flat, for example, having a radius of curvature greater than 10,000 mm, greater than 15,000 mm, or greater than 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 512A and the second panel portion 512B may be curved, for example, having a radius of curvature less than or equal to 10,000 mm, less than or equal to 15,000 mm, or less than or equal to 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 512A and the second panel portion 512B can be cold formed and bent, hot formed and bent, or cold formed and hot formed and bent.

[0125] The dual locking feature 502 may include a Figure 4A and 4B The geometric release notch 402 of the double locking feature 502 can, however, inhibit the rearward deflection of the second frame portion 504B (similar to Figure 4B , such as positive α) and the forward deflection of the second frame portion 504B (such as Figure 5B As shown, for example, negative α).

[0126] The double locking feature 502 may include a longitudinal slot including a first slot 516, a first protrusion 518, a second protrusion 520, a cross member 522, a tab 524, and a second slot 526. The protrusions 518 and 520 of the double locking feature 502 may result in the frame 500 having a plurality of ribs extending longitudinally (top to bottom) across the cover substrate 510 to provide support to the flexible panel portion 514.

[0127] The dual locking feature 502 can be perpendicular to the axis A from the top edge 318 ( Figure 3B ) to the bottom edge 320( Figure 3B ) extends through frame 500 to Figure 5A and 5B The double locking feature 502 includes a weakened portion of the frame 500 adjacent to the flexible panel portion 514. The weakened portion allows the flexible panel portion 514 to bend more easily along a predetermined arc so that the second frame portion 504B can be hinged at an angle -α relative to the first frame portion 504A. Figure 5A and 5BAs shown, the geometric relief cut 502 removes material from the frame 500 of thickness t perpendicular to the axis A. In an example, the thickness t can be reduced in the range of about fifty percent to about ninety-seven percent. In one example, the thickness t is reduced from 10 mm to 0.29 mm. However, the thickness t of the grooves 516 and 526 and the presence of the protrusions 518 and 520 provide sufficient support for the cover substrate 510 to prevent crushing and meet the HIT requirements.

[0128] exist Figure 5A In the straight or extended configuration of the frame 500, the grooves 516 and 526 are flat and extend parallel to the front surface of the panel portions 512A-512C along the axis A, and the protrusions 518 and 520 extend perpendicular to the front surface of the panel portions 512A-512C. The grooves 516 and 526 can be flat to facilitate uniform bending. The grooves 516 and 526 can have other shapes, such as concave or convex. However, the inventors have found that the flat grooves 516 and 526 are effective in creating a constant radius of curvature R2 between the frame portions 504A and 504B, while also avoiding stress concentration that may occur in other shapes. When the frame 500 moves from a straight position to a deployment position where the second frame portion 504B is positioned at an angle -α relative to the first frame portion 504A, the grooves 516 and 526 can become curved.

[0129] The protrusions 518 and 520 may have a straight cross-section such that opposing surfaces of adjacent ones of the protrusions 518 and 520 are flat. Figure 5B When the second frame portion 504B moves forward, the tab 524 moves into engagement with the protrusion 518, thereby limiting the amount by which the second frame portion 504B can move. Figure 5B When moving rearwardly in the opposite direction (eg, the positive α direction), the tab 524 moves into engagement with the wall 528, thereby limiting the amount that the second frame portion 504B can move.

[0130] Instead of creating a constant radius of curvature R2 along the hinge portion 506, the dual locking feature 502 can be configured to create other curved shapes, such as a parabola, by varying the thickness of the groove 516. For example, the groove 516 near the center of the hinge portion 506 can be thicker or thinner than the groove 516 near the frame portions 504A and 504B to create a gradient in the groove height.

[0131] Fig. 6A and 6B 6 is a schematic side view of a frame 600 having a living hinge of a third embodiment including patterned relief cutouts 602 in a straight and bent configuration, respectively.

[0132] The frame 600 may include a first frame portion 604A, a second frame portion 604B, and a hinge portion 606. The frame 600 may be attached to a cover substrate 610. The cover substrate 610 may include a first panel portion 612A, a second panel portion 612B, and a flexible panel portion 614. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 612A and the second panel portion 612B may be flat or substantially flat, for example, having a radius of curvature greater than 10,000 mm, greater than 15,000 mm, or greater than 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 612A and the second panel portion 612B may be curved, for example, having a radius of curvature less than or equal to 10,000 mm, less than or equal to 15,000 mm, or less than or equal to 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 612A and the second panel portion 612B may be cold formed and bent, hot formed and bent, or cold formed and hot formed and bent.

[0133] The patterned release cutouts 602 may include rows and columns of first release cutouts 616A and second release cutouts 616B. In the example shown, the first release cutouts 616A may be arranged in four columns and two rows, and the second release cutouts 616B may be arranged in four columns and one row. However, in other examples, any number of rows and columns may be used, and the columns of release cutouts 616B may alternate with the columns of release cutouts 616A. The rows of release cutouts 616B may be offset from the rows of release cutouts 616A. This patterning of release cutouts 616A and 616B ensures that the frame 600 is not exposed except at the top edge 318 ( Figure 3B ) and bottom edge 320( Figure 3B ), there is no path from the first frame portion 604A to the second frame portion 604B that is not interrupted by the relief cuts 616A and 616B in the hinge portion 606.

[0134] The relief cuts 616A and 616B weaken the frame 600 adjacent to the flexible panel portion 614 to facilitate bending of the material of the frame 600 at a constant radius of curvature R3. Without the relief cuts 616A and 616B, the material of the frame 600 would tend to stretch, particularly at the thickness required to meet HIT requirements, which could result in uneven bending in the cover substrate 610.

[0135] Relief cutouts 616A and 616B may be included in the top edge 318 ( Figure 3B ) to the bottom edge 320( Figure 3B ) direction, so that the slot is transverse to the axis A and parallel to the bending axis BA ( Figure 2A and 2B) extends. The relief cutouts 616A and 616B may have straight sides and semicircular ends. However, the relief cutouts 616A and 616B may have other shapes, such as rectangular, oval, circular, and square.

[0136] Instead of producing a constant radius of curvature R3 along the hinge portion 606, the patterned relief cuts 602 can be configured to produce other curved shapes, such as a parabola, by varying the length and width of the relief cuts 616A and 616B. For example, the relief cuts 616A and 616B near the center of the hinge portion 606 can be thicker or thinner than the relief cuts 616A and 616B near the frame portions 604A and 604B to produce a gradient in the slot height.

[0137] Fig. 7A and 7B 7 is a schematic side view of a frame 700 having a fourth embodiment of a living hinge including a variable thickness flex region 702 in a straight and bent configuration, respectively.

[0138] The frame 700 may include a first frame portion 704A, a second frame portion 704B, and a hinge portion. The frame 700 may be attached to a cover substrate 710. The cover substrate 710 may include a first panel portion 712A, a second panel portion 712B, and a flexible panel portion 714. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 712A and the second panel portion 712B may be flat or substantially flat, for example, having a radius of curvature greater than 10,000 mm, greater than 15,000 mm, or greater than 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 712A and the second panel portion 712B may be curved, for example, having a radius of curvature less than or equal to 10,000 mm, less than or equal to 15,000 mm, or less than or equal to 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 712A and the second panel portion 712B may be cold formed and curved, hot formed and curved, or cold formed and hot formed and curved.

[0139] The variable thickness curved region 702 may include a first end 716A, a middle portion 718, and a second end 716B. The middle portion 718 may be thicker than the first end 716A and the second end 716B. The first end 716A and the second end 716B may have the same thickness as the first panel portion 712A and the second panel portion 712B. The middle portion 718 may be thicker so that the middle portion is harder than the portion of the variable thickness curved region 702 near the ends 716A and 716B. The variable thickness curved region 702 may taper from the middle portion 718 to the ends 716A and 716B. In the example shown, the variable thickness curved region 702 is bent outward from the middle portion 718 to the ends 716A and 716B. However, in other examples, the variable thickness curved region 702 may have two portions connected at a peak or vertex at the center of the curved region 702 located at the center of the flexible panel portion 714. The variable thickness curved region 702 may provide full coverage and support to the flexible panel portion 714.

[0140] The variable thickness flex region 702 may include a body of material that is different from the material of the first frame portion 704A and the second frame portion 704B. In an example, the variable thickness flex region 702 may be composed of a softer material than the frame portions 704A and 704B, such as rubber, plastic, or an elastomer. The variable thickness flex region 702 may be bonded to the frame portions 704A and 704B, for example, using an adhesive, glue, or epoxy.

[0141] The variable thickness of the variable thickness bending region 702, for example, thicker and harder in the middle and thinner and softer toward the ends 716A and 716B, can facilitate the stretching and bending of the variable thickness bending region 702 with a constant radius of curvature R4. In another example, the variable thickness bending region 702 can include patterned relief cuts, such as Fig. 6A and 6B Patterned relief cuts 602 are provided to further facilitate radial bending.

[0142] Instead of producing a constant radius of curvature R4 along the variable thickness curved region 702, the curved region 702 can be configured to produce other curved shapes, such as a parabola, by varying the thickness of the middle portion 718 relative to the end portions 716A and 716B. For example, the end portions 716A and 716B can be thicker and closer to the thickness of the middle portion 718, with a variable gradient between them to control the curvature into other curved shapes other than a circle, such as a parabola.

[0143] Fig. 8A and 8B is a side schematic illustration of a frame 800 having a fifth embodiment of a living hinge including a curved mandrel portion 802 in a straight and curved configuration, respectively.

[0144] The frame 800 may include a first frame portion 804A, a second frame portion 804B, and a hinge portion. The frame 800 may be attached to a cover substrate 810. The cover substrate 810 may include a first panel portion 812A, a second panel portion 812B, and a flexible panel portion 814. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 812A and the second panel portion 812B may be flat or substantially flat, for example, having a radius of curvature greater than 10,000 mm, greater than 15,000 mm, or greater than 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 812A and the second panel portion 812B may be curved, for example, having a radius of curvature less than or equal to 10,000 mm, less than or equal to 15,000 mm, or less than or equal to 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 812A and the second panel portion 812B may be cold formed and curved, hot formed and curved, or cold formed and hot formed and curved. The mandrel 816 may be positioned behind the curved mandrel portion 802 .

[0145] The curved mandrel portion 802 may include a body of material that is different from the material of the first frame portion 804A and the second frame portion 804B. In an example, the curved mandrel portion 802 may be made of a material that is softer than the frame portions 804A and 804B, such as rubber, plastic, or an elastomer. The curved mandrel portion 802 may be bonded to the frame portions 804A and 804B, for example, using an adhesive, glue, or epoxy. The curved mandrel portion 802 may have the same thickness t as the first frame portion 804A and the second frame portion 804B.

[0146] The mandrel 816 may have a curved surface 818 that may be shaped to have a radius of curvature R5. Thus, when the second panel portion 804B is pushed backward from the axis A in the direction D, the curved mandrel portion 802 may be pushed against the curved surface 818 to cause controlled bending of the flexible panel portion 814. The curved surface 818 may have an arc length longer than that of the curved mandrel portion 802, so that a small section of the first frame portion 804A and the second frame portion 804B may be supported on the mandrel 816, thereby ensuring the continuity of the curved shape of the curved mandrel portion 802 between the frame portions 804A and 804B, and no discontinuity is formed in the flexible panel portion 814.

[0147] Instead of creating a constant radius of curvature R5 along the mandrel 816 , the mandrel 816 may be curved in other curved shapes, such as a parabola, to create other curved shapes in the mandrel 816 .

[0148] Fig. 9A and9B 9 is a schematic side view of a frame 900 having a sixth embodiment of a living hinge including sliding wedges 902A and 902B in a straight and curved configuration, respectively.

[0149] The frame 900 may include a first frame portion 904A, a second frame portion 904B, and a hinge portion. The frame 900 may be attached to a cover substrate 910. The cover substrate 910 may include a first panel portion 912A, a second panel portion 912B, and a flexible panel portion 914. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 912A and the second panel portion 912B may be flat or substantially flat, for example, having a radius of curvature greater than 10,000 mm, greater than 15,000 mm, or greater than 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 912A and the second panel portion 912B may be curved, for example, having a radius of curvature less than or equal to 10,000 mm, less than or equal to 15,000 mm, or less than or equal to 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 912A and the second panel portion 912B may be cold formed and curved, hot formed and curved, or cold formed and hot formed and curved.

[0150] The sliding wedges 902A and 902B may include extensions of the first frame portion 904A and the second frame portion 904B, respectively. The sliding wedges 902A and 902B may include curved surfaces 916A and 916B, respectively. The first frame portion 904A and the first sliding wedge 902A may be fixed to provide a fixed structure for the frame 900 and so that the first sliding wedge 902A may serve as a mandrel for the flexible panel portion 914. The second frame portion 904B and the second sliding wedge 902B may be movable relative to the cover substrate 910 so that the second frame portion 904B may slide against the second panel portion 912B and the second sliding wedge 902B may slide out of engagement with the first sliding wedge 902A and away from the flexible panel portion 914. Although in Fig. 9B Not shown, but the second frame portion 904B can slide to extend beyond the outermost end of the second panel portion 912B.

[0151] exist Fig. 9A and 9BIn the embodiment of the present invention, the sliding wedge 902A can be used as a mandrel to control the curved shape of the flexible panel portion 914. The curved surface 916A can have a radius of curvature R6, which can be imparted to the flexible panel portion 914 when the sliding wedge 902B is pulled away from the sliding wedge 902A. The force F of the operator pushing the panel portion 912B can be sufficient to move the second sliding wedge 902B away from the first sliding wedge 902A. The curved surface 916B can have a radius of curvature that substantially matches the radius of curvature R6, and when in Fig. 9A When the sliding wedge 902B is in the straight or extended position, it has the same starting point. Fig. 9B When the deployment or curved position of the curved surface 916B is in the desired configuration, the starting point of the radius of curvature of the curved surface 916B may be displaced from the starting point of the radius of curvature R6. Fig. 9A The straight line structure and Fig. 9B At all positions between the fully bent configuration, the sliding wedges 902A and 902B can provide full support for the cover substrate 910.

[0152] Instead of creating a constant radius of curvature R6 along the sliding wedges 902A and 902B, the sliding wedges 902A and 902B may be curved in other curved shapes, such as a parabola, to create other curved shapes in the sliding wedges 902A and 902B.

[0153] Fig. 10A and 10B 1 is a schematic side view of a frame 1000 having a first embodiment of a link hinge including interlocking links 1002 in a straight and curved configuration, respectively.

[0154] The frame 1000 may include a first frame portion 1004A, a second frame portion 1004B, and a hinge portion. The frame 1000 may be attached to a cover substrate 1010. The cover substrate 1010 may include a first panel portion 1012A, a second panel portion 1012B, and a flexible panel portion 1014. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 1012A and the second panel portion 1012B may be flat or substantially flat, for example, having a radius of curvature greater than 10,000 mm, greater than 15,000 mm, or greater than 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 1012A and the second panel portion 1012B may be curved, for example, having a radius of curvature less than or equal to 10,000 mm, less than or equal to 15,000 mm, or less than or equal to 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 1012A and the second panel portion 1012B can be cold formed and bent, hot formed and bent, or cold formed and hot formed and bent. The frame 1000 can also include a pin joint 1016 .

[0155] The interlocking links 1002 can form a pivotable interlocking mechanism, when the frame 1000 is Fig. 10A The linear position moves to Fig. 10B The interlocking mechanisms rotate relative to each other when the flexible panel portion 1014 is in the bent position. Thus, the frame 1000 avoids any bending or stretching of the material that could potentially cause a bending interruption of the flexible panel portion 1014. For example, on the left side 322 ( Figure 3B ) to the right 324( Figure 3B ) direction, the link 1002 can have a sufficiently short length to avoid the flexible panel portion 1014 from engaging against the long flat portion.

[0156] Fig. 10C yes Fig. 10B 1000, showing the suspended bend stops 1018 and 1020 of the interlocking links 1002. The upper bend stop 1018 may have a flat surface 1022 that is formed when the frame 1000 is in Fig. 10A When in the extended or straight position, the plane 1022 extends perpendicular to the axis A. The lower curved stop 1020 can have a curved surface 1024. The surface 1022 can be configured to abut a surface 1026 of the opposing link 1002. The surface 1024 can be configured to abut a surface 1028 of the opposing link 1002.

[0157] Thus, when the link 1002 is bent into a negative angle α (refer to Fig. 10C Downward), if Fig. 10C As shown, the face 1028 of the lower bend stop 1020 will engage the opposite face of the adjacent link 1002. Fig. 10A When the curved surface 1024 is in a straight or extended position, the surface 1028 and the opposing surface may be angled relative to the axis A so as to allow the curved surface 1024 to slide against the opposing surface of the adjacent link. The size of the angle between the surface 1028 and their opposing surface determines the size of the negative angle α. Fig. 10C In the deployed or bent position, the surface 1022 and the surface 1026 may have an angle therebetween. However, when the link 1002 is bent back to Fig. 10A When the straight line position is reached, the surface 1028 can be disengaged from their opposite surface, and the surfaces 1022 and 1026 can be brought into engagement. Because the surfaces 1022 and 1026 are perpendicular to the axis A, the surfaces 1022 and 1026 will not allow the link 1002 to bend at a positive angle α (reference Fig. 10C 1014 ). However, the angle between faces 1022 and 1026 can be adjusted to allow bending to a positive angle α. As described above, the length of link 1002 can be shorter so that the radius of curvature R7 of flexible panel portion 1014 can remain constant. In one example, link 1002 can function like a watch band link.

[0158] Instead of creating a constant radius of curvature R7 along the link hinge, the interlocking links 1002 may be configured to create other curved shapes, such as a parabola, by varying the length of each link 1002. For example, the links 1002 near the center of the link hinge may be longer or shorter than the links 1002 near the frame portions 1004A and 1004B to create a gradient in link lengths.

[0159] Fig.11A and 11B 1 is a schematic side view of a frame 1100 having a second embodiment of a link hinge including a rigid curved pivot arm 1102 in a straight and curved configuration, respectively.

[0160] The frame 1100 may include a first frame portion 1104A, a second frame portion 1104B, and a hinge portion. The frame 1100 may be attached to a cover substrate 1110. The cover substrate 1110 may include a first panel portion 1112A, a second panel portion 1112B, and a flexible panel portion 1114. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 1112A and the second panel portion 1112B may be flat or substantially flat, for example, having a radius of curvature greater than 10,000 mm, greater than 15,000 mm, or greater than 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 1112A and the second panel portion 1112B may be curved, for example, having a radius of curvature less than or equal to 10,000 mm, less than or equal to 15,000 mm, or less than or equal to 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 1112A and the second panel portion 1112B can be cold formed and bent, hot formed and bent, or cold formed and hot formed and bent. The frame 1100 can also include pivot couplings 1116 and 1118, the pivot coupling 1116 can include a pin 1117, and the pivot coupling 1118 can include a slot 1120 and a pin 1122.

[0161] The pivot arm 1102 can extend between the pivot couplings 1116 and 1118 in a curved, rigid manner. Thus, the length of the pivot arm 1102 along its curve is greater than the length of the right side 324 (1104) of the pivot coupling 1116 and the frame 1100. Figure 3B ) is long. Therefore, Fig.11AIn the straight or extended position, the pivot arm 1102 can be disengaged from the rear surface of the cover substrate 1110, and the cover substrate 1110 can be supported by the first frame portion 1104A and the second frame portion 1104B. In this position, the pin 1122 in the pivot arm 1102 can be located at the distal end of the slot 1120. In this position, additional components can be added to the frame 1100 between the frame portions 1104A and 1104B to support the flexible panel portion 1114.

[0162] In the deployed or bent position, the second panel portion 1112B can move forward in direction F2, which causes the pivot arm 1102 to contact the cover substrate 1110. In particular, the flexible panel portion 1114 will contact a certain length of the pivot arm 1102 having a radius of curvature R8, thereby giving the flexible panel portion 1114 the same radius of curvature. Towards the side where the pivot arm 1102 is coupled to the first frame portion 1104A, the curved portion of the pivot arm 1102 is offset behind the flexible panel portion 1114. In this position, the pin 1122 in the pivot arm 1102 can be located at the proximal end of the slot 1120. The engagement of the pivot arm 1102 with the cover substrate 1110 can additionally provide a locking or limiting mechanism to limit the forward movement of the frame 1100 in direction F2.

[0163] Instead of creating a constant radius of curvature R8 along the pivot arm 1102 , the pivot arm 1102 may be curved in other curved shapes, such as a parabola, to create other curved shapes in the pivot arm 1102 .

[0164] Fig. 12A and 12B is a side schematic illustration of a frame 1200 having a third embodiment of a link hinge including a rigid curved pivot arm 1202A and curved stop lugs 1202B and 1202C in straight and curved configurations, respectively.

[0165] The frame 1200 may include a first frame portion 1204A, a second frame portion 1204B, and a hinge portion. The frame 1200 may be attached to a cover substrate 1210. The cover substrate 1210 may include a first panel portion 1212A, a second panel portion 1212B, and a flexible panel portion 1214. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 1212A and the second panel portion 1212B may be flat or substantially flat, for example, having a radius of curvature greater than 10,000 mm, greater than 15,000 mm, or greater than 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 1212A and the second panel portion 1212B may be curved, for example, having a radius of curvature less than or equal to 10,000 mm, less than or equal to 15,000 mm, or less than or equal to 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 1212A and the second panel portion 1212B can be cold formed and bent, hot formed and bent, or cold formed and hot formed and bent. The frame 1200 can also include pivot couplings 1216 and 1218, the pivot coupling 1216 can include a pin 1217, and the pivot coupling 1218 can include a slot 1220 and a pin 1222.

[0166] The pivot arm 1202A can extend between the pivot links 1216 and 1218 in a curved, rigid manner. Thus, the length of the pivot arm 1202A along its curve is longer than the length of the pivot link 1216 and the right side 324 ( Figure 3B ) is long. Therefore, Fig. 12A In the straight or extended position, the pivot arm 1202A can be disengaged from the rear surface of the cover substrate 1210, and the cover substrate 1210 can be supported by the first frame portion 1204A and the second frame portion 1204B. In this position, the pin 1222 in the pivot arm 1202A can be located at the distal end of the slot 1220. In this position, the bend stop tabs 1202B and 1202C can extend from the frame portions 1204A and 1204B, respectively, to support the flexible panel portion 1214. In this way, the bend stop tabs 1202B and 1202C are not pinned to the pins 1217 and 1222, but rather rigidly extend from the frame portions 1204A and 1204B, respectively.

[0167] In the deployed or bent position, the second panel portion 1212B can move forward in direction F3, which causes the pivot arm 1202A to contact the cover substrate 1210. In particular, the flexible panel portion 1214 will contact a certain length of the pivot arm 1202A having a radius of curvature R9, thereby giving the flexible panel portion 1214 the same radius of curvature. The curved portion of the pivot arm 1202A can be located at the center of the pivot arm 1202A and behind the flexible panel portion 1214. In this position, the pin 1222 in the pivot arm 1202A can be located at the proximal end of the slot 1220. The engagement of the pivot arm 1202A with the cover substrate 1210 can additionally provide a locking or limiting mechanism to limit the forward movement of the frame 1200 in direction F3.

[0168] Instead of creating a constant radius of curvature R9 along the pivot arm 1202A, the pivot arm 1202A may be curved in other curved shapes, such as a parabola, to create other curved shapes in the pivot arm 1202A.

[0169] Fig.13A and 13B is a schematic side view of a frame 1300 having a fourth embodiment of a link hinge including a constrained linkage 1302 in a straight and bent configuration, respectively.

[0170] Frame 1300 may include frame portions and hinge portions as described herein, but for clarity, the hinge portions are not shown in FIG. Fig.13A and 13B The frame portion and the hinge portion are omitted. The cover substrate 1310 may include a first panel portion 1312A, a second panel portion 1312B, and a flexible panel portion 1314. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 1312A and the second panel portion 1312B may be flat or substantially flat, for example, having a radius of curvature greater than 10,000 mm, greater than 15,000 mm, or greater than 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 1312A and the second panel portion 1312B may be curved, for example, having a radius of curvature less than or equal to 10,000 mm, less than or equal to 15,000 mm, or less than or equal to 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 1312A and the second panel portion 1312B may be cold-formed and curved, hot-formed and curved, or cold-formed and hot-formed and curved.

[0171] The linkage 1302 can be arranged as a two-layer linkage, such as a first linkage 1316 and a second linkage 1318. The linkage 1302 can be coupled to a support 1320. The support 1320 can be directly attached to the flexible panel portion 1314, or can be attached to a portion of a frame as described herein that is adjacent to the flexible panel portion 1314. The support 1320 can include a rigid base that provides both rigidity to the flexible panel portion 1314 and a pivot point for the linkage 1320. The first end of the first linkage 1316 can be coupled to the support 1320 at a pivot point 1322. The second ends of the first linkage 1316 can be coupled to each other at a pivot point 1324. Additionally, the first end of the second linkage 1318 can be coupled to the pivot point 1324. The second ends of the second linkage 1318 can be coupled to each other at a pivot point 1326.

[0172] In such Fig.13A In the straight or extended position shown, the struts 1320 extend straight out from the flexible panel portion 1314, the first linkage 1316 is free to pivot at pivot points 1322 and 1324, and the second linkage 1318 is free to pivot at pivot points 1324 and 1326. In this way, the second panel portion 1312B can move forward or backward relative to the first panel portion 1312A. However, the second linkage 1318 constrains the free forward and backward movement of the first linkage 1316, rather than being completely unconstrained when moving forward or backward.

[0173] For example, in the absence of the second linkage 1318, the first linkage 1316 may rotate on the pivot point 1324 in an uncontrolled manner. That is, for example, Fig.13A The leftmost two first linkage mechanisms 1316 can be at the pivot point 1324. Fig.13A The two first linkage mechanisms 1316 on the far right side of the embodiment of the present invention are pivoted more. In this way, the final radius of curvature induced in the flexible panel portion 1314 is different.

[0174] Due to the existence of the second link mechanism 1318, although the first link mechanism 1316 is free to move backward or forward, the movement is constrained. Fig.13AThe movement of the leftmost two first linkages 1316 at the pivot point 1324 cannot be moved without also moving the second linkage 1318. The second linkage 1318 connects the leftmost two first linkages 1316 with the rightmost two first linkages 1316, such as between them, so that no single first linkage 1316 can move without affecting the position of all other first linkages 1316 due to the presence of the second linkage 1318. In this way, the final radius of curvature induced in the flexible panel portion 1314 all has a consistent radius of curvature R10.

[0175] Instead of creating a constant radius of curvature R10 along the linkage 1302, the linkage 1302 may be configured to create other curved shapes, such as a parabola, by varying the length of each linkage 1302. For example, the linkage 1302 near the center of the hinge portion may be longer or shorter than the linkage 1302 near the frame portion to create a gradient in the linkage length.

[0176] Fig.14A and 14B 14 is a schematic side view of a frame 1400 having a sliding hinge of the first embodiment including slide plates 1402A and 1402B in a straight and curved configuration, respectively.

[0177] The frame 1400 may include a first frame portion 1404A, a second frame portion 1404B, and a hinge portion. The frame 1400 may be attached to a cover substrate 1410. The cover substrate 1410 may include a first panel portion 1412A, a second panel portion 1412B, and a flexible panel portion 1414. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 1412A and the second panel portion 1412B may be flat or substantially flat, for example, having a radius of curvature greater than 10,000 mm, greater than 15,000 mm, or greater than 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 1412A and the second panel portion 1412B may be curved, for example, having a radius of curvature less than or equal to 10,000 mm, less than or equal to 15,000 mm, or less than or equal to 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 1412A and the second panel portion 1412B can be cold formed and bent, hot formed and bent, or cold formed and hot formed and bent.

[0178] Slide plates 1402A and 1402B may be interconnected via rails 1416. Fig.14AIn the straight configuration, the slide plate 1402A can abut the shoulder 1418 of the second frame portion 1404B, and the slide plate 1402B can abut the shoulder 1420 of the first frame portion 1404A. In the deployed position, for example, if the second frame portion 1404B is advanced to Fig. 14B In the forward deployed position shown, the slides 1402A and 1402B can slide past each other. Due to the continuity of the cover substrate 1410 between the second panel portion 1412B and the flexible panel portion 1414, the slide 1402A will remain in close proximity to the second frame portion 1404B. However, since the first frame portion 1404A and the second frame portion 1404B are not constrained along the axis A, the second slide 1402B can move away from the first frame portion 1404A to form a gap G near the shoulder 1420.

[0179] Fig. 14C and 14D is along Fig. 14B Alternative cross-sectional views of the slides 1402A and 1402B taken at section AA illustrate two examples of the guide rail 1416 .

[0180] Fig. 14C A guide rail 1416 is shown including interconnected T-shaped posts 1424A and 1424B. The first T-shaped post 1424A may include a horizontal extension 1426A and the second T-shaped post 1424B may include a horizontal extension 1426B. The horizontal extensions 1426A and 1426B may overlap to prevent lateral separation of the slides 1402A and 1402B, but facilitate longitudinal sliding from one side to the other.

[0181] Fig.14D A guide rail 1416 is shown that includes a tube 1428 and a belt 1430. The belt 1430 can be disposed within the tube 1428 to prevent the slides 1402A and 1402B from lateral separation, but to facilitate longitudinal sliding from one side to the other. In the example shown, the tube 1428 and the belt 1430 are circular, but other cross-sectional shapes can be used.

[0182] Instead of creating a constant radius of curvature R11 along the slides 1402A and 1402B, the slides 1402A and 1402B may be configured to create other curved shapes, such as a parabola, by varying the thickness and stiffness of the slides 1402A and 1402B along their lengths.

[0183] Fig.15 is a side schematic diagram of frame 1500 with dampers 1502A and 1502B attached thereto.

[0184] The frame 1500 may include a first frame portion 1504A, a second frame portion 1504B, and a hinge portion 1506. The frame 1500 may be attached to a cover substrate 1510. The cover substrate 1510 may include a first panel portion 1512A, a second panel portion 1512B, and a flexible panel portion 1514. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 1512A and the second panel portion 1512B may be flat or substantially flat, for example, having a radius of curvature greater than 10,000 mm, greater than 15,000 mm, or greater than 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 1512A and the second panel portion 1512B may be curved, for example, having a radius of curvature less than or equal to 10,000 mm, less than or equal to 15,000 mm, or less than or equal to 20,000 mm. In one or more embodiments, one or both of the first panel portion 1512A and the second panel portion 1512B can be cold formed and bent, hot formed and bent, or cold formed and hot formed and bent. Frame 1500 represents any frame discussed herein, such as frames 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, and 1400.

[0185] The damper 1502A may extend from the fixed anchor point 1516A to the second frame portion 1504B. The damper 1502A may include a device 1518A connectable to the linkages 1520A and 1522A.

[0186] The damper 1502B may extend from the fixed anchor point 1516B to the second frame portion 1504B. The damper 1502B may include a device 1518B connectable to the linkages 1520B and 1522B.

[0187] Devices 1518A and 1518B may include any suitable damper known in the art. For example, devices 1518A and 1518B may include a sheet that is soft relative to other components, such as a rubber stopper. Devices 1518A and 1518B may additionally include components that fold according to a pre-designed mechanism to absorb energy. Devices 1518A and 1518B may additionally include hydraulic shock absorbers or springs.

[0188] The systems and methods of the present application produce a dynamically bendable cover substrate assembly that is strong, easy to manufacture, and supports a bendable cover substrate in a manner that results in smooth, continuous bending of the cover substrate. The frame described herein allows the cover substrate to bend on its own, but constrains or regulates such bending so that the cover substrate undergoes controlled bending that is evenly distributed along the arc length of the bend, minimizes the presence of discontinuities between adjacent flat and curved portions, and produces a constant radius of curvature.

[0189] Aspect (1) of the present disclosure relates to a display assembly for an automobile interior, the display assembly comprising: a dynamically bendable cover panel, comprising: a first panel portion; a second panel portion; and a flexible panel portion connecting the first panel portion and the second panel portion; a display, adjacent to the first panel portion and the second panel portion; and a frame, supporting the dynamically bendable cover panel, the frame comprising: a first frame portion for supporting the first panel portion; a second frame portion for supporting the second panel portion; and a hinge portion connecting the first frame portion and the second frame portion, the hinge portion being configured to cause a curved shape having a smoothly connected arc segment in the flexible panel portion between the first panel portion and the second panel portion when the second frame portion is hinged from a straight position to a deployed position relative to the first frame portion.

[0190] Aspect (2) relates to the display assembly of aspect (1), wherein the hinge portion comprises a living hinge.

[0191] Aspect (3) relates to the display assembly of aspect (2), wherein the living hinge comprises a mechanical weakening of the frame in the hinge portion.

[0192] Aspect (4) relates to the display assembly of aspect (3), wherein the living hinge comprises a plurality of longitudinal slots extending through the hinge portion proximate the flexible panel portion.

[0193] Aspect (5) relates to the display assembly of aspect (4), wherein each of the multiple longitudinal slots comprises: a flat slot extending parallel to the flexible panel portion; and adjacent surfaces extending from the flat slot, wherein, when the hinge portion is in a straight position, the spacing between the adjacent surfaces is less than the width of the flat slot.

[0194] Aspect (6) relates to the display assembly of aspect (4), wherein each of the plurality of longitudinal slots comprises a suspended bend stop.

[0195] Aspect (7) relates to the display assembly of aspect (6), wherein the suspended bend stop includes: a first protrusion extending laterally from the hinge portion; a second protrusion extending laterally from the hinge portion and separated from the first protrusion; a cross member extending longitudinally from the second protrusion and separated from the hinge portion; and a tab extending laterally from the cross member toward the hinge portion on a side of the first protrusion opposite to the second protrusion.

[0196] Aspect (8) relates to the display assembly of aspect (3), wherein the hinge portion includes a plurality of transverse slots extending through the hinge portion transversely relative to the flexible panel portion.

[0197] Aspect (9) relates to the display assembly of aspect (8), wherein the plurality of transverse slots are arranged in offset rows and columns.

[0198] Aspect (10) relates to the display assembly of aspect (2), wherein the first frame portion, the second frame portion and the hinge portion of the frame are an integral structure.

[0199] Aspect (11) relates to the display assembly of aspect (10), wherein the movable hinge comprises: a first end; a second end; and a middle portion extending between the first end and the second end, wherein the middle portion has a cross-sectional profile with varying thickness to control the bending of the movable hinge.

[0200] Aspect (12) relates to the display assembly of aspect (11), wherein the middle portion is thicker than the first end portion and the second end portion.

[0201] Aspect (13) relates to the display assembly of any one of aspects (1) to (12), further comprising a mandrel having a circular arc segment shape.

[0202] Aspect (14) relates to the display assembly of aspect (13), wherein the hinge portion of the frame includes a spindle.

[0203] Aspect (15) relates to the display assembly of aspect (14), wherein the second frame portion is slidable relative to the second panel portion and includes a surface configured to mate flush with the spindle such that when the second panel portion slides to engage with the spindle, the frame is in a linear position and when the second panel portion slides to disengage from the spindle, the frame is in a deployed position.

[0204] Aspect (16) relates to the display assembly of aspect (13), wherein the first frame portion, the second frame portion and the hinge portion of the frame are an integral structure, and the spindle is positioned behind the hinge portion.

[0205] Aspect (17) relates to the display assembly of any one of aspects (1) to (16), wherein the hinge portion includes a plurality of hinge linkages pinned to the first frame portion and the second frame portion.

[0206] Aspect (18) relates to the display assembly of aspect (17), wherein each of the plurality of hinge-link mechanisms comprises: a first deflector for preventing movement in the linear position; and a second deflector for preventing movement in the deployed position.

[0207] Aspect (19) relates to the display assembly of aspect (17), wherein the multiple hinge linkage mechanisms include an elongated bent linkage mechanism having a first end pinned to the first frame portion, an intermediate member configured to extend over the flexible panel portion and at least a portion of the second panel portion, and a second end pinned to the second frame portion at a narrow slot, wherein the second frame portion extends over only a portion of the second panel portion.

[0208] Aspect (20) relates to the display assembly of aspect (19), wherein the elongated curved linkage mechanism is configured to engage the flexible panel portion in the deployed position and to disengage from the flexible panel portion in the straight position.

[0209] Aspect (21) relates to the display assembly of aspect (17), wherein the multiple hinge linkage mechanisms include: a bent linkage mechanism pinned to a first frame portion, extending over a flexible panel portion and pinned to a second frame portion at a slot; a first straight lug rigidly extending from the first panel portion over at least a portion of the flexible panel portion; and a second straight lug rigidly extending from the second panel portion over at least a portion of the flexible panel portion; wherein, in a straight position, the first straight lug and the second straight lug engage the flexible panel portion, and in a deployed position, the bent linkage mechanism engages the flexible panel portion.

[0210] Aspect (22) relates to a display assembly according to aspect (17), wherein the plurality of hinge linkages comprise a scissor-type mechanism.

[0211] Aspect (23) relates to the display assembly of aspect (22), wherein the scissor-type mechanism includes: a plurality of struts extending from the back of the flexible panel portion, each of the plurality of struts having a pivot point at its free end; a plurality of first link mechanisms extending from the pivot point at a first end and connected to an adjacent first link mechanism at a second end; and a plurality of second link mechanisms extending from the second ends of the first link mechanisms at a third end and connected to an adjacent second link mechanism at a fourth end.

[0212] Aspect (24) relates to the display assembly of any one of aspects (1) to (23), wherein the hinge portion includes a sliding mechanism.

[0213] Aspect (25) relates to the display assembly of aspect (24), wherein the sliding mechanism includes: a first set of guide rails extending from a first frame portion; and a second set of guide rails extending from a second frame portion; wherein the first set of guide rails and the second set of guide rails include a hinge portion; wherein the first set of guide rails can slide freely along the second set of guide rails.

[0214] Aspect (26) relates to the display assembly of any one of aspects (1) to (25), further comprising a damper for controlling movement of the hinge portion between the straight position and the deployed position.

[0215] Aspect (27) relates to the display assembly of any one of aspects (1) to (26), wherein the damper is selected from the group consisting of a hydraulic shock absorber, a spring, a corrugated device, and a rubber stopper.

[0216] Aspect (28) relates to a display assembly of any one of aspects (1) to (27), wherein the hinge portion is configured to induce a radius of curvature having an arc segment in the flexible panel portion between the first panel portion and the second panel portion.

[0217] Aspect (29) relates to a display assembly for use in an automobile interior, the display assembly comprising: a dynamically bendable cover panel, comprising: a first panel portion; a second panel portion; and a flexible panel portion connecting the first panel portion and the second panel portion; a display, adjacent to the first panel portion and the second panel portion; and a frame, supporting the dynamically bendable cover panel, the frame comprising: a first frame portion for supporting the first panel portion; a second frame portion for supporting the second panel portion; and a movable hinge, connecting the first frame portion and the second frame portion.

[0218] Aspect (30) relates to the display assembly of aspect (29), wherein the living hinge comprises a mechanical weakening of the frame in the hinge portion.

[0219] Aspect (31) relates to the display assembly of aspect (30), wherein the movable hinge includes a plurality of longitudinal slots extending through the hinge portion proximate the flexible panel portion.

[0220] Aspect (32) relates to the display assembly of aspect (31), wherein each of the multiple longitudinal slots comprises: a flat slot extending parallel to the flexible panel portion; and adjacent surfaces extending from the flat slot, wherein, when the hinge portion is in a straight position, the spacing between the adjacent surfaces is less than the width of the flat slot.

[0221] Aspect (33) relates to the display assembly of aspect (31), wherein each of the plurality of longitudinal slots comprises a suspended bend stop.

[0222] Aspect (34) relates to the display assembly of aspect (33), wherein the suspended bend stop includes: a first protrusion extending laterally from the hinge portion; a second protrusion extending laterally from the hinge portion and separated from the first protrusion; a cross member extending longitudinally from the second protrusion and separated from the hinge portion; and a tab extending laterally from the cross member toward the hinge portion on a side of the first protrusion opposite to the second protrusion.

[0223] Aspect (35) relates to the display assembly of aspect (30), wherein the hinge portion includes a plurality of transverse slots extending through the hinge portion transversely relative to the flexible panel portion.

[0224] Aspect (36) relates to the display assembly of aspect (35), wherein the plurality of transverse slots are arranged in offset rows and columns.

[0225] Aspect (37) relates to the display assembly of any one of aspects (29) to (36), wherein the first frame portion, the second frame portion and the hinge portion of the frame are an integral structure.

[0226] Aspect (38) relates to the display assembly of aspect (37), wherein the movable hinge includes: a first end; a second end; and an intermediate portion extending between the first end and the second end, wherein the intermediate portion has a cross-sectional profile with varying thickness to control bending of the movable hinge.

[0227] Aspect (39) relates to the display assembly of aspect (38), wherein the middle portion is thicker than the first end portion and the second end portion.

[0228] Aspect (40) relates to a display assembly for use in an automobile interior, the display assembly comprising: a dynamically bendable cover panel, comprising: a first panel portion; a second panel portion; and a flexible panel portion connecting the first panel portion and the second panel portion; a display, adjacent to the first panel portion and the second panel portion; a frame for supporting the dynamically bendable cover panel, the frame comprising: a first frame portion for supporting the first panel portion; a second frame portion for supporting the second panel portion; and a hinge portion connecting the first frame portion and the second frame portion; and a spindle located behind the flexible panel portion, the spindle having the shape of an arc segment.

[0229] Aspect (41) relates to the display assembly of aspect (40), wherein the hinge portion of the frame includes a spindle.

[0230] Aspect (42) relates to the display assembly of aspect (41), wherein the second frame portion is slidable relative to the second panel portion and includes a surface configured to mate flush with the spindle such that when the second panel portion slides to engage with the spindle, the frame is in a linear position and when the second panel portion slides to disengage from the spindle, the frame is in a deployed position.

[0231] Aspect (43) relates to the display assembly of aspect (40), wherein the first frame portion, the second frame portion and the hinge portion of the frame are an integral structure, and the spindle is positioned behind the hinge portion.

[0232] Aspect (44) relates to a display assembly for an automobile interior, the display assembly comprising: a dynamically bendable cover panel, comprising: a first panel portion; a second panel portion; and a flexible panel portion connecting the first panel portion and the second panel portion; a display, adjacent to the first panel portion and the second panel portion; and a frame for supporting the dynamically bendable cover panel, the frame comprising: a first frame portion for supporting the first panel portion; a second frame portion for supporting the second panel portion; and a plurality of hinge-link mechanisms pinned to the first frame portion and the second frame portion.

[0233] Aspect (45) relates to the display assembly of aspect (44), wherein each of the plurality of hinge-link mechanisms comprises: a first deflector for preventing movement in the linear position; and a second deflector for preventing movement in the deployed position.

[0234] Aspect (46) relates to the display assembly of aspect (44), wherein the plurality of hinge linkages include an elongated bent linkage having a first end pinned to a first frame portion, an intermediate member configured to extend over a flexible panel portion and at least a portion of a second panel portion, and a second end pinned to the second frame portion at a slot, wherein the second frame portion extends over only a portion of the second panel portion.

[0235] Aspect (47) relates to the display assembly of aspect (46), wherein the elongated curved linkage mechanism is configured to engage the flexible panel portion in the deployed position and to disengage from the flexible panel portion in the straight position.

[0236] Aspect (48) relates to the display assembly of aspect (44), wherein the plurality of hinge linkages include: a bent linkage pinned to a first frame portion, extending through a flexible panel portion and pinned to a second frame portion at a slot; a first straight lug rigidly extending from the first panel portion through at least a portion of the flexible panel portion; and a second straight lug rigidly extending from the second panel portion through at least a portion of the flexible panel portion; wherein, in a straight position, the first straight lug and the second straight lug engage the flexible panel portion, and in a deployed position, the bent linkage engages the flexible panel portion.

[0237] Aspect (49) relates to the display assembly of aspect (44), wherein the plurality of hinge linkages comprise a scissor-type mechanism.

[0238] Aspect (50) relates to the display assembly of aspect (49), wherein the scissor-type mechanism includes: a plurality of struts extending from behind the flexible panel portion, each of the plurality of struts having a pivot point at its free end; a plurality of first link mechanisms extending from the pivot point at a first end and connected to an adjacent first link mechanism at a second end; and a plurality of second link mechanisms extending from the second ends of the first link mechanisms at a third end and connected to an adjacent second link mechanism at a fourth end.

[0239] Aspect (51) relates to a display assembly for an automobile interior, the display assembly comprising: a dynamically bendable cover panel, the cover panel comprising: a first panel portion; a second panel portion; and a flexible panel portion connecting the first panel portion and the second panel portion; a display, adjacent to the first panel portion and the second panel portion; and a frame for supporting the dynamically bendable cover panel, the frame comprising: a first frame portion for supporting the first panel portion; a second frame portion for supporting the second panel portion; and a sliding hinge mechanism connecting the first frame portion and the second frame portion.

[0240] Aspect (52) relates to the display assembly of aspect (51), wherein the sliding hinge mechanism includes: a first set of guide rails extending from a first frame portion; a second set of guide rails extending from a second frame portion; wherein the first set of guide rails and the second set of guide rails include a hinge portion; wherein the first set of guide rails can slide freely along the second set of guide rails.

[0241] The above detailed description includes reference to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The accompanying drawings show specific embodiments that can implement the present invention by way of illustration. These embodiments are also referred to as "examples" in this article. Such examples may include elements other than those elements shown or described. However, the inventors also consider examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. In addition, the inventors also consider examples using any combination or permutation of those elements (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described with respect to a specific example (or one or more aspects thereof) or with respect to other examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein.

[0242] In the event of inconsistent usages between this document and any document incorporated herein by reference, the usage in this document controls.

[0243] In this document, as is common in patent literature, the terms "a" or "the" are used to include one or more than one, regardless of any other instance or use of "at least one" or "one or more". In this document, the term "or" is used to refer to a non-exclusive or, so "A or B" includes "A but not B", "B but not A", and "A and B", unless otherwise stated. In this document, the terms "including" and "wherein" are used as the ordinary language equivalents of the corresponding terms "comprising" and "wherein". In addition, in the following claims, the terms "including" and "comprising" are open-ended, that is, systems, devices, articles, compositions, preparations, or processes that include elements other than those listed after this term in the claim are still considered to be within the scope of the claim. In addition, in the following claims, the terms "first", "second", and "third", etc. are used only as labels and are not intended to assign numerical requirements to their objects.

[0244] The above description is intended to illustrate rather than limit. For example, the above examples (or one or more aspects thereof) can be used in combination with each other. For example, a person of ordinary skill in the art can use other embodiments after reading the above description. An abstract is provided to allow the reader to quickly determine the nature of the technical disclosure. It should be understood that it is not intended to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the above specific embodiments, various features can be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as intending that the disclosed features that are not claimed for protection are essential to any claim. On the contrary, the subject matter of the invention may be less than all the features of a specific disclosed embodiment. Therefore, the following claims are thus incorporated into the specific embodiments as examples or embodiments, wherein each claim is independently used as a separate embodiment, and it is considered that such embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the present invention should be determined with reference to the full scope of the attached claims and the equivalents of these claims.

Claims

1. A display assembly, comprising: A dynamically bendable cover plate, the dynamically bendable cover plate comprising: a display adjacent to the dynamically bendable cover; and a frame supporting the dynamically bendable cover panel, the frame including a hinge portion configured to induce an arc segment-shaped bend in the dynamically bendable cover panel, A mandrel is disposed behind the frame and has the arc segment shape, wherein the frame contacts the mandrel when the frame causes the bend.

2. The display assembly of claim 1, wherein the mandrel includes a curved surface against which the frame is urged when curvature is induced in the dynamically bendable cover panel.

3. The display assembly of claim 2, wherein the curved surface comprises an arc length that is longer than the hinge portion of the frame.

4. The display assembly of claim 2, wherein the curved surface has a constant radius of curvature such that the arc segment is in the shape of a circular arc.

5. The display assembly of claim 2, wherein the curved surface has a varying radius of curvature such that the arc segment does not have an arc shape.

6. The display assembly of claim 1, wherein the dynamically bendable cover comprises a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion is hinged to deflect relative to the second portion when the bending is induced.

7. The display assembly of claim 6, wherein the display is disposed adjacent to the first portion and the second portion.

8. The display assembly of claim 7, wherein one of the first portion and the second portion is flat or substantially flat.

9. The display assembly of claim 8, wherein when the curvature is induced, both the first portion and the second portion are flat.

10. The display assembly of claim 6, wherein the frame comprises a first frame portion supporting the first portion and a second frame portion supporting the second portion, wherein the hinge portion is disposed between the first frame portion and the second frame portion.

11. The display assembly of claim 6, wherein the first frame portion, the second frame portion, and the hinge portion of the frame are a unitary structure.

12. The display assembly of claim 1, wherein an arc length of the arc segment varies in proportion to a degree of curvature of the dynamically bendable cover plate, but a radius of curvature of the arc segment is constant regardless of the degree of curvature.

13. An automobile interior system, comprising: A dynamically bendable cover plate, the dynamically bendable cover plate comprising: a display adjacent to the dynamically bendable cover; and a frame supporting the dynamically bendable cover panel, the frame including a hinge portion configured to induce an arc segment-shaped bend in the dynamically bendable cover panel; and a mandrel disposed behind the frame and having the arc segment shape, wherein the frame contacts the mandrel when the frame causes the bending, Wherein, when the bending is induced, a first portion of the dynamically bendable cover panel is articulated relative to a second portion of the dynamically bendable cover panel while the second portion remains fully supported by the structure of the vehicle interior system.

14. The automotive interior system of claim 13, wherein the mandrel includes a curved surface against which the frame is urged when curvature is induced in the dynamically bendable cover panel.

15. The automotive interior system of claim 14, wherein the curved surface comprises an arc length that is longer than the hinge portion of the frame.

16. The automotive interior system of claim 14, wherein the curved surface has a constant radius of curvature such that the arc segment is in the shape of a circular arc.

17. The automotive interior system of claim 14, wherein the curved surface has a varying radius of curvature such that the arc segment does not have an arc shape.

18. The automotive interior system according to claim 13, wherein the frame includes a first frame portion supporting the first portion and a second frame portion supporting the second portion, wherein the hinge portion is disposed between the first frame portion and the second frame portion.

19. The automotive interior system of claim 18, wherein the first frame portion, the second frame portion, and the hinge portion of the frame are a unitary structure.

20. The automotive interior system of claim 13, wherein an arc length of the arc segment varies in proportion to a degree of bending of the dynamically bendable cover panel, but a radius of curvature of the arc segment is constant regardless of the degree of bending.

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