Supporting piece and preparation method thereof, flexible display module and electronic equipment

Abstract

The invention provides a supporting piece and a preparation method thereof, a flexible display module and electronic equipment, the supporting piece is provided with a first bending area, the supporting piece comprises multiple fiber layers which are arranged in a stacked mode, the multiple fiber layers comprise a first supporting assembly and a second supporting assembly which is arranged in a stacked mode with the first supporting assembly, the first supporting assembly is used for supporting a flexible screen, and the second supporting assembly is used for supporting the flexible screen. The second supporting assembly located in the first bending area is provided with a first bending hole penetrating through the second supporting assembly. According to the supporting piece provided by the invention, the first bending hole is only formed in the second supporting assembly, so that the supporting piece has an ultrathin blind groove structure, the bending performance, the smoothness and the supporting performance are considered, and the folding mark, the light shadow, the extrusion resistance and the like of the whole machine are greatly improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of flexible display technology, specifically relating to support components and their preparation methods, flexible display modules, and electronic devices. Background Technology

[0002] Flexible screens are a crucial component in foldable electronic devices. To improve their support performance, support structures are typically placed on the back of the flexible screen. Improving bending reliability without compromising the flexible screen's bending performance is a pressing issue for the industry. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of this, the first aspect of this application provides a support member having a first bending region. The support member includes multiple layers of fiber stacked together. The multiple layers of fiber stacked together include a first support component and a second support component stacked together with the first support component. The first support component is used to support a flexible screen. The second support component located in the first bending region has a first bending hole penetrating through the second support component.

[0004] The support provided in the first aspect of this application is composed of multiple layers of fiber, which reduces the weight of the support and makes it thinner and lighter compared to the support made of metal in related technologies.

[0005] Secondly, the multi-layered fiber layer is divided into a first support component and a second support component stacked together. The first support component is mainly used to support the flexible screen, and the second support component is located on the side of the first support component away from the flexible screen, that is, below the first support component. In this application, a first bending hole is only opened through the second support component at the first bending area corresponding to the second support component, exposing the first support component. In other words, the first bending hole is only opened on the surface of the support component away from the flexible screen, and no hole is opened on the surface of the support component used to support the flexible screen. That is, the first bending hole does not penetrate the upper and lower surfaces of the support component, so it does not affect the bending performance of the support component, and the support component still has excellent bending performance.

[0006] Furthermore, since the first support component has no openings, when the flexible screen is placed on the support and bent, the support effect and flatness of the flexible screen at the first bending area are better, the overall light and shadow effect is better, and creases are reduced. In addition, since there is a step without openings under the flexible screen, the screen's resistance to compression is improved.

[0007] A second aspect of this application provides a method for manufacturing a support member, the support member having a first bending region, the manufacturing method comprising:

[0008] Provides multiple fiber layers;

[0009] By stacking a portion of the fiber layers in the multi-layered fiber layer, a first support component is obtained;

[0010] The remaining fiber layers are sequentially stacked on one side of the first support component to obtain a second support component, wherein the stacking direction of the fiber layers in the second support component is consistent with the stacking direction of the fiber layers in the first support component.

[0011] The first support component is connected to the multi-layer fiber layer in the second support component through a molding process to obtain an initial support component;

[0012] The support member is obtained by forming a first bending hole through the second support component located in the first bending area.

[0013] The method for preparing the support member provided in the second aspect of this application is simple. By forming the first bending hole only at the second support component, it not only does not affect the bending performance of the support member, but also improves the support effect and flatness of the flexible screen, resulting in better overall light and shadow effects and compression resistance, and can also reduce creases.

[0014] A third aspect of this application provides a flexible display module, the flexible display module including a flexible screen and a support member as provided in the first aspect of this application, the flexible screen having a display surface, and a first support component of the support member being disposed on the side of the flexible screen opposite to the display surface.

[0015] The flexible display module provided in the third aspect of this application, by adopting the support member provided in the first aspect of this application, forms a first bending hole only at the second support component, which not only does not affect the bending performance of the flexible display module, but also improves the support effect and flatness of the flexible screen, resulting in better overall light and shadow effects and compression resistance, and also reduces creases.

[0016] The fourth aspect of this application provides an electronic device, which includes a first housing, a second housing, a folding device, and a flexible display module as provided in the third aspect of this application. The opposite ends of the folding device are respectively connected to the first housing and the second housing, and the flexible display module is disposed on the same side of the first housing, the second housing, and the folding device.

[0017] The fourth aspect of this application provides an electronic device in which, by adopting the flexible display module provided in the third aspect of this application, the formation of the first bending hole only at the second support component not only does not affect the bending performance of the electronic device, but also improves the support effect and flatness of the flexible screen, resulting in better overall light and shadow effects and compression resistance, and also reduces creases. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments of this application will be described below.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the support member in one embodiment of this application.

[0020] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a flexible display module according to one embodiment of this application.

[0021] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the support member in another embodiment of this application.

[0022] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A schematic diagram showing the relationship between the fiber extension direction and the bending axis in the first fiber layer of the first support module in the support member shown.

[0023] Figure 5 for Figure 3 A schematic diagram showing the relationship between the fiber extension direction and the bending axis in the second fiber layer of the first support module in the support member shown.

[0024] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the support member in another embodiment of this application.

[0025] Figure 7 for Figure 6 The diagram shows the support member in a bent state.

[0026] Figure 8 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the support member in one embodiment of this application.

[0027] Figure 9 This is a process flow diagram of the method for preparing the support member according to one embodiment of this application.

[0028] Figures 10-14 They are respectively Figure 9 A schematic diagram corresponding to S100, S200, S300, S400, and S500.

[0029] Figure 15 This is a process flow diagram included after S200 in one embodiment of this application.

[0030] Figures 16-19 They are respectively Figure 15 A schematic diagram corresponding to S210, S220, S230, and S240.

[0031] Figure 20 This is a process flow diagram of S300 in one embodiment of this application.

[0032] Figures 21-26 They are respectively Figure 20 A schematic diagram corresponding to S311, S312, S313, S314, S315, and S316.

[0033] Figure 27 This is a process flow diagram of S300 and S500 in one embodiment of this application.

[0034] Figures 28-30 They are respectively Figure 27 A schematic diagram corresponding to S321, S322, and S323.

[0035] Figure 31 for Figure 27 A schematic diagram corresponding to S510 in the middle.

[0036] Figure 32 This is a process flow diagram of S300 and S500 in another embodiment of this application.

[0037] Figures 33-36 They are respectively Figure 32 The diagrams corresponding to S331, S332, S333, and S334 are shown.

[0038] Figures 37-38 They are respectively Figure 32 Schematic diagrams corresponding to S520 and S530.

[0039] Figure 39 This is a process flow diagram included after S323 or S333 in one embodiment of this application.

[0040] Figure 40 for Figure 39 A schematic diagram corresponding to S340 in the middle.

[0041] Figure 41 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the electronic device in the unfolded state according to one embodiment of this application.

[0042] Figure 42 for Figure 41 The exploded view of the electronic device shown.

[0043] Figure 43 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the electronic device in a folded state according to one embodiment of this application.

[0044] Label Explanation:

[0045] Support component-1, first bending area-1a, second bending area-1b, bending axis-1c, flexible screen-2, flexible display module-3, electronic device-4, fiber layer-10, support surface-100, side surface-101, first fiber layer-11, second fiber layer-12, first part-13, second part-14, first fiber layer group-15, second fiber layer group-16, third fiber layer-17, fourth fiber layer-18, first support assembly-20, second support assembly-30, first bending hole-31, first top wall-310, second bending hole-32, second top wall-320, first hole-33, second hole-34, protective layer-40, isolation layer-41, filler-50, first housing-61, second housing-62, folding device-70. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The following are preferred embodiments of this application. It should be noted that, for those skilled in the art, several improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the principles of this application, and these improvements and modifications are also considered to be within the scope of protection of this application.

[0047] Before introducing the technical solution of this application, let's go over the technical issues in related technologies in detail.

[0048] Flexible screens are a crucial component in foldable electronic devices. To improve their support performance, a support structure is typically placed on the back of the flexible screen. Furthermore, to avoid affecting the bending performance of the flexible screen, through-holes are usually made in the support structure at the bending points of the flexible screen. Currently, the materials used for support structures mainly include metals and non-metals. Metals primarily include stainless steel and titanium alloys, while non-metals mainly include carbon fiber, glass fiber, and other fiber materials. The materials and manufacturing processes of the support structure directly affect the folding performance, durability, weight, and cost of foldable electronic devices. This application will briefly introduce the manufacturing processes for various materials and analyze their advantages and disadvantages. When the support structure is primarily made of stainless steel and titanium alloys, it is mainly prepared using a metal etching process, specifically including the following steps: 1. Pre-treatment: Cleaning, degreasing, and removing oxide scale from the metal plate to ensure a clean and impurity-free surface, preparing for the subsequent etching process. 2. Mask making and exposure: Based on the design requirements of the support structure, a corresponding mask (e.g., film) is made. Then, the metal plate is placed on an exposure machine and exposed through a photomask to reveal the areas to be etched. 3. Development: After exposure, the protective layer of the exposed metal areas (i.e., the parts that do not need to be retained) is removed using a developing solution, exposing the metal surface. 4. Etching: The developed metal plate is placed in an etching solution, where chemical etching removes the exposed metal parts, forming the desired pattern and structure. Strict control of parameters such as the concentration, temperature, and etching time of the etching solution is necessary during etching to ensure etching accuracy and product quality. 5. Post-processing: After etching, the metal plate undergoes post-processing steps such as cleaning, deburring, and polishing to improve the surface quality and precision of the product. 6. Assembly and Testing: The etched metal plate is assembled with other components such as the flexible screen to form a complete flexible display module product. Performance testing and quality inspection are then conducted to ensure the product meets design requirements and quality standards.

[0049] Support components fabricated through metal etching offer the following advantages: 1. High precision: Metal etching technology achieves micron-level or even nanometer-level processing accuracy, meeting the requirements for high-precision patterns and structures in support components. 2. Burr-free and deformation-free: Compared to traditional stamping processes, metal etching eliminates burrs and deformation, resulting in higher product surface quality. 3. Capable of processing complex shapes: Metal etching technology can fabricate support component structures with various complex shapes and patterns, meeting the diverse needs of flexible screen designs. 4. High flexibility: The etching process allows for flexible adjustments to pattern and structural designs, adapting to the customized needs of different products.

[0050] Of course, supports manufactured through metal etching also have the following disadvantages: 1. Higher cost: Metal etching requires specialized equipment and materials, and the process is relatively complex, resulting in higher costs. 2. Relatively low production efficiency: Compared to some mass production processes, metal etching may have lower production efficiency, especially when processing a large number of supports with the same pattern. 3. Environmental issues: The chemical solutions used in the etching process may have a certain impact on the environment, requiring corresponding environmental protection measures. In conclusion, while metal etching technology has unique advantages and application prospects in the manufacture of supports, its cost, production efficiency, and environmental impact also require attention.

[0051] When the support component is made of non-metallic materials such as carbon fiber, the manufacturing process mainly includes the following steps: 1. Material preparation: Selecting suitable carbon fiber materials and auxiliary materials, such as resin and adhesives. Carbon fiber is usually provided in the form of prepreg (i.e., carbon fiber pre-impregnated with resin) to facilitate subsequent processing and molding. 2. Mold manufacturing: Manufacturing precise molds according to the design requirements of the support component. The mold needs to have an accurate shape and a smooth surface to ensure that the molded carbon fiber support component meets the requirements. 3. Carbon fiber prepreg laying: Laying the carbon fiber prepreg into the mold according to the design. This step requires precise control of the number and orientation of the prepreg layers to meet the strength and flexibility requirements of the support component. 4. Vacuum degassing and curing: Applying a vacuum to the mold to remove air bubbles from the prepreg and then curing by heating. This step is crucial to ensuring the molding and performance of the carbon fiber support component. Vacuum degassing avoids the influence of air bubbles on the performance of the support component; heating curing allows the resin to fully cure, enhancing the bonding force between the carbon fiber and the resin. 5. Demolding, Trimming, and Curing: After demolding, the carbon fiber support component is demolded from the mold and then trimmed and polished as necessary. This step removes burrs and unevenness, improving the appearance quality and precision of the support component. 6. Surface Treatment: The surface of the carbon fiber support component is treated with coatings or films. This step enhances the support component's wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and other properties, improving its service life and reliability. 7. Mesh Engraving: An array of mesh holes is formed on the surface of the support component, penetrating both the upper and lower surfaces, using laser engraving, CNC machining, etc., to facilitate bending of the support component in conjunction with the flexible screen. 8. Assembly and Testing: The carbon fiber support component is assembled with other components into a flexible screen phone, and functional and strength tests are performed. This step ensures that the support component meets the design requirements and performance standards of the flexible screen phone.

[0052] Carbon fiber support components offer several advantages: 1. Lightweight: Carbon fiber has a low density, significantly reducing the weight of flexible screen phones and improving portability. 2. High strength: Carbon fiber possesses extremely high tensile strength and fatigue resistance, enabling it to withstand stress changes during folding and unfolding of flexible screen phones. 3. Corrosion resistance: Carbon fiber is not easily corroded by chemicals and environmental factors, maintaining stable performance in humid, high-temperature, or chemically corrosive environments. 4. Good processability: Carbon fiber prepreg can be molded into support components of various shapes and sizes to meet the design requirements of flexible screen phones.

[0053] Of course, carbon fiber support components also have the following disadvantages: 1. High cost: The manufacturing cost of carbon fiber materials is high, resulting in a relatively high cost for the support components. This may increase the price of flexible screen phones and limit their market penetration. 2. Complex production process: The production process of carbon fiber support components requires precise mold making, vacuum degassing, and curing, among other complex steps, placing high demands on production equipment and process control. 3. Relatively low toughness: Although carbon fiber materials have high strength, their toughness is relatively low. They are prone to breakage or damage under overload or impact, therefore, appropriate measures need to be taken in the design and use process to enhance their toughness.

[0054] As can be seen from the above, both metal rolling etching and carbon fiber composite materials are currently the most common materials used by manufacturers in the industry, and their supply chains and processes are very mature. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages. Metal rolling etching has a relatively lower overall cost. Due to the high elastic modulus and good support stiffness of metal materials, especially their isotropic nature, the overall screen lighting is slightly better. However, it requires long processes such as exposure, development, and etching, resulting in low yield. Furthermore, etching and ink removal generate wastewater, waste gas, and solid waste emissions, which have a certain impact on environmental emissions. Due to the high density of metal, the support components are also relatively heavy. Carbon fiber composite support components have a simpler process, higher yield, and are lighter than stainless steel and titanium alloys. However, carbon fiber filaments are expensive, and the laser engraving process for array mesh and edge trimming takes a long time, leading to high carbon fiber board costs. The unidirectional warp and weft stacking of carbon fiber results in lower stiffness at 45° compared to the warp and weft directions, leading to poor support and lighting effects in flexible screens at 45°.

[0055] However, whether it's a metal or carbon fiber support component, existing supports all have through-hole structures. When a flexible screen is placed on such a support, it affects the screen's display performance. For example, it reduces the screen's resistance to compression, especially at the through-hole areas. It also affects the screen's lighting effects, making creases deeper and more noticeable. Therefore, improving bending reliability without compromising the flexible screen's bending performance is a pressing issue for the industry.

[0056] To address the aforementioned problems, this application provides a support component, which you may refer to. Figures 1-2 , Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the support member in one embodiment of this application. Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a flexible display module according to one embodiment of this application. The support member 1 provided in this embodiment has a first bending region 1a. The support member 1 includes multiple fiber layers 10 stacked together. The multiple fiber layers 10 include a first support component 20 and a second support component 30 stacked with the first support component 20. The first support component 20 is used to support the flexible screen 2. The second support component 30 located in the first bending region 1a has a first bending hole 31 that penetrates through the second support component 30.

[0057] The support member 1 is mainly used to support the flexible screen 2, so as not to affect the bending performance of the flexible screen 2 while supporting it, so that the flexible display module 3 composed of the flexible screen 2 and the support member 1 can be easily bent into a preset shape. The flexible screen 2 is a component with a certain degree of flexibility. Compared with rigid components, the flexible screen 2 can be bent to a certain extent. For example, the flexible screen 2 includes, but is not limited to, flexible display screens, flexible touch screens, flexible touch display screens, and other flexible components with corresponding functions, or flexible components that are fixedly attached to the flexible support member 1, such as flexible display screens and flexible touch screens attached to the flexible support member 1. The support member 1 has a first bending area 1a, which mainly corresponds to the bending area of ​​the flexible screen 2. When the flexible screen 2 is bent, not all areas are bent, only some areas are bent. The area of ​​the support member 1 corresponding to the bending of the flexible screen 2 is the first bending area 1a. For example, when the flexible screen 2 is folded inward, the first bending area 1a can also be called the inner bending area. When the first bending area 1a is folded outward, the first bending area 1a can also be called the outer bending area. This embodiment and the following text only illustrate the flexible screen 2 folding inward.

[0058] The support 1 is composed of multiple layers of fiber layers 10 stacked together. Each fiber layer 10 is composed of multiple fibers extending in a predetermined direction and resin located between and encapsulating the fibers. The fibers include, but are not limited to, any one or more combinations of glass fiber, carbon fiber, aramid fiber, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fiber, and alumina fiber. The resin includes, but is not limited to, any one or more combinations of epoxy resin and modified epoxy resin. This embodiment is only illustrated using carbon fiber as the fiber and epoxy resin as the resin; in this case, the fiber layer 10 can also be called the carbon fiber layer 10, and the support 1 can also be called the carbon fiber support 1. Through the design of the laminated materials, the support 1 made from the fiber layer 10 retains the low-density characteristics of the fibers, reducing the weight of the support 1 compared to metal materials, making the support 1 thinner and lighter. For example, using the equivalent stiffness of 0.12mm titanium alloy as a standard, the thickness of the support 1 made from the fiber layer 10 can be approximately 0.15mm, and its weight is 3g lighter than titanium alloy and 9g lighter than stainless steel. Although the thickness is slightly increased, the weight is significantly reduced, resulting in a thinner and lighter support 1 overall.

[0059] The multi-layer fiber layer 10 can be understood as having at least two fiber layers. This embodiment only illustrates five fiber layers 10, and in other embodiments, the number of fiber layers 10 can be other numbers. The multi-layer fiber layer 10 stacking arrangement can be understood as each fiber layer 10 being stacked on top of another fiber layer 10 along the thickness direction of the support member 1. In other words, during the preparation process, the first fiber layer 10 is provided first, then the second fiber layer 10 is placed on top of the first fiber layer 10, then the third fiber layer 10 is placed on top of the second fiber layer 10, and so on, until the support member 1 is obtained after the last fiber layer 10 is placed. This allows the stacking direction of the multi-layer fiber layer 10 to be the thickness direction of the support member 1, and adjacent fiber layers 10 are fixedly connected together by resin. Therefore, the presence of the multi-layer fiber layer 10 may not be visible from the appearance of the support member 1.

[0060] The multilayer fiber layer 10, which is stacked, can be divided into two parts: a first support component 20 and a second support component 30. Although the multilayer fiber layer 10 is stacked layer by layer during the manufacturing process, in this embodiment, for ease of explanation and understanding, a portion of the multilayer fiber layer 10 is named the first support component 20, and the remaining portion is named the second support component 30. Therefore, the first support component 20 and the second support component 30 are also stacked. Figure 1As shown, in the five fiber layers 10, the upper two fiber layers 10 are named the first support component 20, and the lower three fiber layers 10 are named the second support component 30. Of course, in other embodiments, the fiber layers 10 of the first support component 20 and the second support component 30 can also be other numbers. For example, the first support component 20 and the second support component 30 may each have only one fiber layer 10, or the first support component 20 and the second support component 30 may include more fiber layers 10. At the same time, this does not mean that the support component 1 is prepared by first preparing the first support component 20, then preparing the second support component 30, and finally connecting the first support component 20 to the second support component 30. Rather, it is formed by stacking the multiple fiber layers 10 one by one as mentioned above.

[0061] The first support component 20 at the top is mainly used to support the flexible screen 2. Specifically, the flexible screen 2 has a display surface for displaying images, and the first support component 20 is supported on the surface of the flexible screen 2 away from the display surface. This can also be understood as meaning that regardless of the number of fiber layers 10 included in the first support component 20, the uppermost fiber layer 10 of the first support component 20 is used to support the flexible screen 2. The second support component 30 is located on the side of the first support component 20 away from the flexible screen 2, that is, the second support component 30 is located on the lowermost fiber layer 10 of the first support component 20. Therefore, the arrangement order from top to bottom in the flexible display module 3 is: flexible screen 2, first support component 20, second support component 30.

[0062] As can be seen from the above, the support member 1 has a first bending area 1a corresponding to the bending area of ​​the flexible screen 2. Therefore, the first support component 20 and the second support component 30 also have a first bending area 1a. In this embodiment, the first bending hole 31 can be opened only at the first bending area 1a of the second support component 30, thus exposing the first support component 20. That is, all the fiber layers 10 in the second support component 30 have the first bending hole 31, which can also be understood as the first bending hole 31 penetrating through the second support component 30, thus allowing the first support component 20 to be exposed. As for the fiber layers 10 in the first support component 20, none of them have the first bending hole 31. Therefore, the fiber layers 10 with the first bending hole 31 can be named the second support component 30, and the ones without the first bending hole 31 can be named the first support component 20. In other words, this embodiment does not create the first bending hole 31 on all fiber layers 10, but only on the lower portion of the fiber layers 10 of the support member 1. The upper portion of the fiber layers 10 does not have the first bending hole 31. This means the first bending hole 31 is only created on the side of the support member 1 facing away from the flexible screen 2. The surface of the support member 1 used to support the flexible screen 2 is not perforated; that is, the first bending hole 31 does not penetrate the upper and lower surfaces of the support member 1. Therefore, this does not affect the bending performance of the support member 1, and the support member 1 still possesses excellent bending performance. Furthermore, since the first support component 20 is not perforated, when the flexible screen 2 is placed on the support member 1 and bent, the fiber layer 10 below the bending area of ​​the flexible screen 2 provides support. The support effect and flatness of the flexible screen 2 at the first bending area 1a are better, resulting in a better overall light and shadow effect and reducing creases. Furthermore, since the flexible screen 2 is supported by a fiber layer 10 without any openings or steps, its compression resistance can be improved. For example, the compression resistance of the flexible screen 2 can be increased by 4 times. Under the same overall machine operating conditions, the flexible screen 2 can withstand a cone pressure of 8kg without failure, thus improving the reliability of the entire module. At this time, for the support member 1 as a whole, the first bending hole 31 can also be called a blind groove structure, that is, the support member 1 has a groove structure without a through hole structure. At this time, the support member 1 can also be called a carbon fiber blind groove structure support member 1.

[0063] In summary, the support member 1 provided in this embodiment has a first bending hole 31 only at the bottom, which makes the support member 1 have an ultra-thin blind groove structure, taking into account bendability, flatness and support, and greatly improving the overall machine's crease, light and shadow, and compression resistance.

[0064] Optionally, the number of first bending holes 31 is not limited in this embodiment. There may be one or more first bending holes 31, and the multiple first bending holes 31 are arranged along the extension direction perpendicular to the first bending hole 31. This embodiment only illustrates one bending hole.

[0065] Please refer to this as well. Figures 3-5 , Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the support member in another embodiment of this application. Figure 4 for Figure 3 A schematic diagram showing the relationship between the fiber extension direction and the bending axis in the first fiber layer of the first support module in the support member shown. Figure 5 for Figure 3 The diagram shows the relationship between the fiber extension direction and the bending axis of the second fiber layer in the first support module of the support member. The first support assembly 20 includes a first fiber layer 11 and a second fiber layer 12. The first fiber layer 11 supports the flexible screen 2, and the second fiber layer 12 is disposed between the first fiber layer 11 and the second support assembly 30. The fiber extension direction in the first fiber layer 11 forms a first angle ∠A with the bending axis 1c of the support member 1, and the fiber extension direction in the second fiber layer 12 forms a second angle ∠B with the bending axis 1c of the support member 1; wherein 80°≤∠A≤100°, 0°≤∠B≤10°.

[0066] The fiber layer 10 in the first support component 20 can be divided into a first fiber layer 11 and a second fiber layer 12. The first fiber layer 11 is mainly used to support the flexible screen 2. In other words, the first fiber layer 11 in the first support component 20 is the uppermost fiber layer 10 in the first support component 20 and even in the entire support component 1. This fiber layer 10 is the structure that actually contacts the surface of the flexible screen 2 that is away from the display surface. The second fiber layer 12 is located below the first fiber layer 11, that is, the second fiber layer 12 is located between the first fiber layer 11 and the second support component 30. Therefore, the arrangement order of the support component 1 from top to bottom is the first fiber layer 11, the second fiber layer 12, and the second support component 30. The first fiber layer 11 is one layer, while the second fiber layer 12 can be one layer or multiple layers. This embodiment only illustrates the first fiber layer 12. In this case, the first support component 20 consists of two fiber layers 10: one first fiber layer 11 and one second fiber layer 12. If the number of second fiber layers 12 is too large, it will increase the overall thickness of the support component 1. It can also be understood that when the thickness of the support component 1 remains unchanged, if the number of second fiber layers 12 is too large, the thickness of each second fiber layer 12 will be too thin, increasing the difficulty of the manufacturing process.

[0067] As can be seen from the above, the fiber layer 10 includes multiple fibers extending in a predetermined direction (such as...). Figure 4 and Figure 5(As shown by the thick black line) It is composed of, for example, when the material of the fiber layer 10 is carbon fiber, the carbon fiber layer 10 is formed by multiple unfolded unidirectional carbon fibers extending along a preset direction. At this time, the fiber layer 10 can also be called the unidirectional carbon fiber layer 10. Alternatively, the fiber layer 10 can also be an ultra-thin fiber woven fabric. The support member 1 can be bent along with the flexible screen 2. Therefore, the support member 1 has a first bending area 1a corresponding to the bending area of ​​the flexible screen 2. When the support member 1 is bent, the support member 1 has a bending axis 1c. The bending axis 1c is parallel to the extension direction of the first bending area 1a. At the same time, the bending axis 1c is also parallel to the extension direction of the first bending hole 31. That is, the bending axis 1c, the extension direction of the first bending area 1a, and the extension direction of the first bending hole 31 are parallel to each other and / or overlap.

[0068] A specific angular relationship is designed between the fibers in the first fiber layer 11 of the first support component 20, the fibers in the second fiber layer 12, and the bending axis 1c of the support member 1. Specifically, the extension direction of the fibers in the first fiber layer 11 has a first included angle ∠A with respect to the bending axis 1c of the support member 1, where 80°≤∠A≤100°. The extension direction of the fibers in the second fiber layer 12 has a second included angle ∠B with respect to the bending axis 1c of the support member 1, where 0°≤∠B≤10°. In other words, the extension direction of the fibers in the first fiber layer 11 is approximately perpendicular to the bending axis 1c of the support member 1, with a deviation range of ±10° between the extension direction of the fibers and the bending axis 1c, to prevent errors during the laying of the first fiber layer 11. The extension direction of the fibers in the second fiber layer 12 is approximately parallel to the bending axis 1c of the support member 1, with a deviation range of +10° between the extension direction of the fibers and the bending axis 1c, to prevent errors during the laying of the second fiber layer 12. It can be understood that the first fiber layer 11 and the second fiber layer 12 can be regarded as completely identical fiber layers 10, except that the laying orientation of the fiber layers 10 changes during the laying process, thus becoming fiber layers 10 with different fiber extension directions. For example, when laying the first fiber layer 10, the fiber extension direction in the fiber layer 10 can be made perpendicular to the bending axis 1c. When laying the second fiber layer 12 on the first fiber layer 11, the fiber layer 10 can be rotated 90° and then laid on the first fiber layer 11. At this time, the fiber extension direction of the fiber layer 10 is parallel to the bending axis 1c.

[0069] Optionally, the first included angle ∠A can be 80°, 82°, 84°, 86°, 88°, 90°, 92°, 94°, 96°, 98°, or 100°. The second included angle ∠B can be 0°, 2°, 4°, 6°, 8°, or 10°. This embodiment is only illustrated with the example of the fiber extension direction in the first fiber layer 11 being perpendicular to the bending axis 1c of the support member 1, and the fiber extension direction in the second fiber layer 12 being parallel to the bending axis 1c of the support member 1. In this case, the fiber extension direction in the first fiber layer 11 can also be referred to as 0° setting, and the fiber extension direction in the second fiber layer 12 can also be referred to as 90° setting.

[0070] With the above configuration, the first support assembly 20 composed of at least two fiber layers 10 can reduce the impact of the first bending hole 31 on the flexible screen 2 compared to the first support assembly 20 composed of a single fiber layer 10, thereby further improving the display performance of the flexible screen 2. Secondly, by making the fiber extension direction of the uppermost first fiber layer 11 nearly perpendicular to the bending axis 1c, and the fiber extension direction of the lower second fiber layer 12 nearly parallel to the bending axis 1c, it can be ensured that the support member 1 will not crack during subsequent bending, while improving the flatness of the support member 1 and preventing the support member 1 from warping.

[0071] Optionally, the extension direction of the fibers in the first fiber layer 11 is perpendicular to the extension direction of the fibers in the second fiber layer 12.

[0072] Of course, in other embodiments, the extension direction of the fibers in the first fiber layer 11 may also have a second included angle ∠B with the bending axis 1c of the support member 1, and the extension direction of the fibers in the second fiber layer 12 may also have a first included angle ∠A with the bending axis 1c of the support member 1, wherein 80°≤∠A≤100° and 0°≤∠B≤10°.

[0073] Please refer to this again. Figure 3 The second support component 30 includes the third fiber layer 17 and the fourth fiber layer 18, wherein the third fiber layer 17 is farther away from the first support component 20 than the fourth fiber layer 18. The fibers in the third fiber layer 17 extend in the same direction as the fibers in the first fiber layer 11, and the fibers in the fourth fiber layer 18 extend in the same direction as the fibers in the second fiber layer 12.

[0074] The second support component 30 can be divided into a third fiber layer 17 and a fourth fiber layer 18. The fiber extension direction in the third fiber layer 17 is the same as that in the first fiber layer 11. The third fiber layer 17 and the first fiber layer 11 are actually made of the same material and have the same structure. They are actually the same layer structure, but for ease of distinction, the fiber layers located in different support components have been given different names. Similarly, the fourth fiber layer 18 and the second fiber layer 12 are also actually the same layer structure, but for ease of distinction, the fiber layers located in different support components have been given different names. The angular relationship between the fiber extension direction in the third fiber layer 17 and the fourth fiber layer 18 and the bending axis 1c can be referred to the angular relationship between the fiber extension direction in the first fiber layer 11 and the second fiber layer 12 and the bending axis 1c, which will not be repeated here in this embodiment.

[0075] Regarding the third fiber layer 17 and the fourth fiber layer 18 in the second support component 30, the third fiber layer 17 is farther away from the first support component 20 than the fourth fiber layer 18. In other words, the third fiber layer 17 is the lowest fiber layer 10 in the second support component 30 and even the entire support member 1. The fourth fiber layer 18 is located between the first support component 20 and the third fiber layer 17. At this time, the arrangement order of the support member 1 from top to bottom is the first fiber layer 11, the second fiber layer 12, ..., the fourth fiber layer 18, and the third fiber layer 17. At this time, the number of third fiber layers 17 in the second support component 30 is one. The fact that the two identical first fiber layers 11 and third fiber layers 17 in the entire support member 1 can ensure the symmetry of the performance of the support member 1.

[0076] The number of fourth fiber layers 18 in the second support component 30 is not limited in this embodiment. For example, the number of fourth fiber layers 18 in the second support component 30 can be one to nine layers. This embodiment only illustrates the case with two fourth fiber layers 18 in the second support component 30. In this case, the total number of second fiber layers 12 and fourth fiber layers 18 in the support component 1 is three, and the support component 1 is composed of a total of five fiber layers 10, arranged from top to bottom as first fiber layer 11, second fiber layer 12, fourth fiber layer 18, fourth fiber layer 18, and third fiber layer 17. If the number of fourth fiber layers 18 is too large, it will increase the overall thickness of the support component 1. It can also be understood that when the thickness of the support component 1 remains unchanged, if the number of fourth fiber layers 18 is too large, the thickness of each fourth fiber layer 18 will be too thin, increasing the difficulty of the manufacturing process. This design allows the support component 1 to be axially symmetrical, which can further ensure the symmetry of the performance of the support component 1.

[0077] Therefore, the first bending hole 31 is formed in the lower third fiber layer 17 and two fourth fiber layers 18, totaling three fiber layers 10. While ensuring the overall thickness of the support member 1 is moderate, this ensures both the opening depth of the first bending hole 31 to guarantee bending performance and avoids the impact of the first bending hole 31 on the flexible screen 2 by utilizing the upper first fiber layer 11 and second fiber layer 12. For example, the depth of the first bending hole 31 is 0.0 mm.

[0078] It is understood that the first fiber layer 11, the second fiber layer 12, the third fiber layer 17, and the fourth fiber layer 18 satisfy at least one of the following conditions: the elastic modulus of the first fiber layer 11 is less than the elastic modulus of the second fiber layer 12, the elastic modulus of the third fiber layer 17 is less than the elastic modulus of the fourth fiber layer 18, and / or, the basis weight of the first fiber layer 11 is less than the basis weight of the second fiber layer 12, and the basis weight of the third fiber layer 17 is less than the basis weight of the fourth fiber layer 18.

[0079] It is worth noting that the third fiber layer 17 and the first fiber layer 11 are actually the same layer structure, only located in different support components. Therefore, the third fiber layer 17 can be described as the first fiber layer 11. Similarly, the fourth fiber layer 18 can be described as the second fiber layer 12. Since the fiber extension direction in the first fiber layer 11 is not the same as that in the second fiber layer 12, and the fiber extension direction in the third fiber layer 17 is not the same as that in the fourth fiber layer 18, the stiffness of the fiber layers 10 with different extension directions is also different. Specifically, since the first fiber layer 11 and the third fiber layer 17 are on the top and bottom sides, and the second fiber layer 12 and the fourth fiber layer 18 are in the middle, the stiffness of the fiber extension direction in the first fiber layer 11 is positively correlated with the total thickness from the top first fiber layer 11 to the bottom third fiber layer 17, i.e., the overall thickness of the support member 1. The stiffness of the fiber extension direction in the second fiber layer 12 is positively correlated with the total thickness from the top second fiber layer 12 to the bottom fourth fiber layer 18, i.e., the total thickness of the three fiber layers 10.

[0080] Therefore, the overall thickness of support 1 is relatively large, for example, 0.15mm. In this case, the elastic modulus of the first fiber layer 11 and the third fiber layer 17 can be designed to be relatively small. For example, the first fiber layer 11 and the third fiber layer 17 can be selected with low modulus and material, thereby reducing the stiffness in the fiber extension direction of the first fiber layer 11. Similarly, the basis weight of the first fiber layer 11 and the third fiber layer 17 can also be designed to be relatively small. For example, the first fiber layer 11 and the third fiber layer 17 can be selected with T700 / T800 fiber layer 10 and a basis weight of 15g-25g, thereby reducing the stiffness in the fiber extension direction of the first fiber layer 11. Optionally, the basis weight of the first fiber layer 11 can be 15g, 17g, 19g, 21g, 23g, or 25g.

[0081] Furthermore, since the total thickness of the three intermediate fiber layers 10 is less than the overall thickness of the support 1, for example, the total thickness of the three intermediate fiber layers 10 is 0.12 mm, the elastic modulus of the second fiber layer 12 and the fourth fiber layer 18 can be designed to be larger and greater than the elastic modulus of the first fiber layer 11 and the third fiber layer 17. For example, the second fiber layer 12 and the fourth fiber layer 18 can be selected as high-modulus M40 fiber layers 10, thereby making the stiffness in the fiber extension direction of the second fiber layer 12 greater. The basis weight of the second fiber layer 12 and the fourth fiber layer 18 can also be designed to be larger and greater than the basis weight of the first fiber layer 11 and the third fiber layer 17, for example, the basis weight of the second fiber layer 12 and the fourth fiber layer 18 is 30g-70g, thereby making the stiffness in the fiber extension direction of the second fiber layer 12 greater. Optionally, the basis weight of the second fiber layer 12 can be 30g, 35g, 40g, 45g, 50g, 55g, 60g, 65g, or 70g.

[0082] In summary, by considering the requirements for total thickness and stiffness, the specifications of different fiber layers 10 can be designed. By designing the elastic modulus and basis weight of each layer, the stiffness of the fiber extension direction in the first fiber layer 11 can be made equal to the stiffness of the fiber extension direction in the second fiber layer 12, thereby ensuring that the stiffness of the support 1 remains consistent in all directions and improving the overall stiffness of the support 1.

[0083] Optionally, the thickness of the first fiber layer 11 is less than the thickness of the second fiber layer 12, and the thickness of the third fiber layer 17 is less than the thickness of the fourth fiber layer 18. By designing the upper and lower first fiber layers 11 and third fiber layers 17 to be low modulus, low weight, and thin, the upper and lower fiber layers 10 can be easily bent, thereby improving the bending performance of the support 1. Similarly, by designing the middle three layers, the second fiber layer 12 and fourth fiber layer 18, to be high modulus, high weight, and thick, the supporting performance of the support 1 can be improved, and the overall strength of the support 1 can be increased.

[0084] Please refer to this as well. Figures 6-7 , Figure 6This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the support member in another embodiment of this application. Figure 7 for Figure 6 The diagram shows a support member in a bent state. The support member 1 has two second bending regions 1b located on opposite sides of the first bending region 1a. A second bending hole 32 is provided in the fiber layer 10 of the second support component 30 located in the second bending region 1b, in the direction opposite to the first support component 20. The second bending hole 32 penetrates a portion of the fiber layer 10 of the second support component 30. When the support member 1 is in a bent state, the bending direction of the support member 1 in the first bending region 1a is opposite to the bending direction of the support member 1 in the second bending region 1b.

[0085] In addition to the first bending area 1a, the support member 1 may also have two second bending areas 1b. The two second bending areas 1b are located on opposite sides of the first bending area 1a, and the bending direction of the support member 1 in the two first bending areas 1a is opposite to the bending direction of the support member 1 in the two second bending areas 1b. For example, when the flexible screen 2 is folded inward to form a waterdrop screen, the middle first bending area 1a can be an inward bending area, in which case the support member 1 of the first bending area 1a bends inward. The second bending areas 1b on both sides are outward bending areas, in which case the support member 1 of the second bending area 1b bends outward. The inward bending area is mainly used to bend the support member 1, while the outward bending area is mainly used to help the flexible screen 2 form a waterdrop shape. Optionally, the first bending area 1a and the second bending area 1b are spaced apart, and the specific spacing can be designed according to the waterdrop shape of the flexible screen 2.

[0086] Since the bending requirement of the second bending region 1b is less than that of the first bending region 1a, the second bending hole 32 does not need to be opened in all the fiber layers 10 in the second support component 30 like the first bending hole 31. Instead, the second bending hole 32 is only provided in the portion of the fiber layers 10 of the second support component 30 located in the second bending region 1b that is away from the first support component 20. In other words, the second bending hole 32 only penetrates a portion of the fiber layers 10 of the second support component 30. For example, when the second support component 30 includes two fourth fiber layers 18 and one third fiber layer 17, the first bending hole 31 penetrates all three fiber layers 10, and the second fiber layer 12 can be opened only in the bottom third fiber layer 17. In this case, the depth of the second bending hole 32 can be 0.019 mm. Alternatively, it can be opened in the bottom third fiber layer 17 and the fourth fiber layer 18 above the third fiber layer 17. In this case, the depth of the second bending hole 32 can be 0.055 mm. The specific number of fiber layers 10 opened in the second bending hole 32 can be set according to the needs of the support member 1 at the second bending area 1b. For example, when the support member 1 at the second bending area 1b needs higher rigidity, it can be opened only in the bottom third fiber layer 17. When the support member 1 at the second bending area 1b needs better bending performance, it can be opened in the bottom third fiber layer 17 and the fourth fiber layer 18.

[0087] Please refer to this again. Figure 6 The support member 1 has a support surface 100 for supporting the flexible screen 2. The first bending hole 31 has a first top wall 310 near the support surface 100, and the second bending hole 32 has a second top wall 320 near the support surface 100. The support member 1 satisfies at least one of the following conditions: the vertical distance from the support surface 100 to the first top wall 310 is 0.03mm-0.09mm, and / or the vertical distance from the support surface 100 to the second top wall 320 is 0.06mm-0.12mm.

[0088] The support surface 100 has been described in detail above, and will not be repeated here. Since neither the first bending hole 31 nor the second bending hole 32 penetrates the upper and lower surfaces of the support member 1, the first bending hole 31 and the second bending hole 32 can also be referred to as blind groove structures for the support member 1 as a whole. Therefore, the first bending hole 31 has a top wall close to the support surface 100, which can be called the first top wall 310. Similarly, the second bending hole 32 has a top wall close to the support surface 100, which can be called the second top wall 320.

[0089] When the overall thickness of the support member 1 is constant, for example, when the overall thickness is 0.1mm-0.15mm, the vertical distance from the support surface 100 to the first top wall 310 can be controlled (e.g., Figure 6(As shown in H1) The vertical distance is 0.03mm-0.09mm. If the vertical distance from the support surface 100 to the first top wall 310 is too small, for example, less than 0.03mm, the depth of the first bending hole 31 will be too large and the thickness of the first support component 20 will be too small. This will cause the first bending hole 31 to affect the performance of the flexible screen 2, such as affecting the light and shadow effect and creases of the flexible screen 2. If the vertical distance from the support surface 100 to the first top wall 310 is too large, for example, greater than 0.09mm, the depth of the first bending hole 31 will be too small, which will affect the bending performance of the support component 1. By making the vertical distance from the support surface 100 to the first top wall 310 0.03mm-0.09mm, not only can the main bending area of ​​the support component 1 have excellent bending performance and ensure the reliability of the bending of the support component 1, but the support component 1 can also retain a sufficient thickness of the first support component 20, thereby avoiding the influence of the first bending hole 31 on the flexible screen 2. Optionally, the vertical distance from the support surface 100 to the first top wall 310 can be 0.03mm, 0.04mm, 0.05mm, 0.06mm, 0.07mm, 0.08mm, or 0.09mm.

[0090] Similarly, the vertical distance from the support surface 100 to the second top wall 320 (e.g.) Figure 6 (As shown in H2) The vertical distance is 0.06mm-0.12mm. If the vertical distance from the support surface 100 to the second top wall 320 is too small, for example, less than 0.06mm, the depth of the second bending hole 32 will be too large, and the thickness of the remaining fiber layer 10 will be too small, resulting in excessive bending performance of the second bending area 1b, and may even affect the support performance of the flexible screen 2 at the second bending area 1b. If the vertical distance from the support surface 100 to the second top wall 320 is too large, for example, greater than 0.12mm, the depth of the second bending hole 32 will be too small, which will affect the bending performance of the second bending area 1b. By making the vertical distance from the support surface 100 to the second top wall 320 0.06mm-0.12mm, not only can the second bending area 1b have excellent bending performance and ensure the reliability of bending, but it can also have excellent support performance. Optionally, the vertical distance from the support surface 100 to the second top wall 320 is 0.06mm, 0.07mm, 0.08mm, 0.09mm, 0.10mm, 0.11mm, or 0.12mm.

[0091] It is worth noting that the support member 1 may only satisfy the requirement that the vertical distance from the support surface 100 to the first top wall 310 is 0.03mm-0.09mm, or the support member 1 may only satisfy the requirement that the vertical distance from the support surface 100 to the second top wall 320 is 0.06mm-0.12mm, or the support member 1 may simultaneously satisfy both the requirement that the vertical distance from the support surface 100 to the first top wall 310 is 0.03mm-0.09mm and the requirement that the vertical distance from the support surface 100 to the second top wall 320 is 0.06mm-0.12mm. This embodiment is only used as an illustration to ensure the reliability of bending in each bending area of ​​the support member 1 by simultaneously satisfying the requirement that the vertical distance from the support surface 100 to the first top wall 310 is 0.03mm-0.09mm and the requirement that the vertical distance from the support surface 100 to the second top wall 320 is 0.06mm-0.12mm.

[0092] Please refer to Figure 8 , Figure 8 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a support member according to one embodiment of this application. The support member 1 has a support surface 100 for supporting the flexible screen 2, and two side surfaces 101 that are bent to connect opposite sides of the support surface 100. The first bending hole 31 and the second bending hole 32 satisfy at least one of the following conditions: the first bending hole 31 penetrates the surface of the second support component 30 away from the support surface 100 and the two side surfaces 101; and / or, the second bending hole 32 penetrates the surface of the second support component 30 away from the support surface 100 and the two side surfaces 101.

[0093] As can be seen from the above, the uppermost surface of the support member 1 is the support surface 100 used to support the flexible screen 2. In other words, the upper surface of the first fiber layer 11 in the support member 1 is the support surface 100. Simultaneously, on opposite sides of the bending axis 1c of the support member 1, there are two side surfaces 101 that are bent and connected to opposite sides of the support surface 100. In related technologies, the through holes of the support member 1 penetrate the upper and lower surfaces of the support member 1, and the through holes are arranged in an array. In other words, the first bending area 1a has multiple through holes arranged in an array, each with a small size. Furthermore, due to the limitations of the fiber material, the through holes in the support member 1 cannot be mass-produced like metal etching processes; they can only be processed one by one through laser engraving or CNC machining. This increases the manufacturing time and cost of the support member 1. Generally speaking, engraving the array of through holes is the most time-consuming step in the entire manufacturing process of the fiber material support member 1. Furthermore, in order to further improve the display performance of the flexible screen 2, the size of the through holes needs to be further reduced, which will undoubtedly further increase the time required to carve the array of through holes.

[0094] Based on this, the support member 1, by creating blind grooves such as the first bending hole 31 and the second bending hole 32, allows the first bending hole 31 to penetrate the surface of the second support component 30 away from the support surface 100 and the two side surfaces 101. And / or, the second bending hole 32 penetrates the surface of the second support component 30 away from the support surface 100 and the two side surfaces 101. In other words, the first bending hole 31 is not like individual small through holes in related technologies; the first bending hole 31 is a single strip-shaped hole that penetrates not only the surface of the second support member 1 away from the support surface 100 but also the two side surfaces 101 of the support member 1. Thus, when preparing the first bending hole 31, it is only necessary to carve two straight lines along the edges on both sides of the first bending hole 31, and then remove the fiber layer 10 between the two straight lines to obtain a single, continuous first bending hole 31.

[0095] Similarly, the second bent hole 32 is not like the individual small through holes in related technologies. The second bent hole 32 is a single strip-shaped hole. The second bent hole 32 not only penetrates the surface of the second support member 1 opposite to the support surface 100, but also penetrates both sides 101 of the support member 1. Thus, when preparing the second bent hole 32, it is only necessary to carve two straight lines along the edges on both sides of the second bent hole 32, and then remove the fiber layer 10 between the two straight lines to obtain a single strip of the second bent hole 32.

[0096] In summary, both the first bent hole 31 and the second bent hole 32 can be obtained with only two simple straight engravings. Compared with the engraving process in related technologies, this can save a lot of laser engraving time, reduce engraving precision, improve yield and reduce costs.

[0097] It is worth noting that the support member 1 may only satisfy the condition that the first bending hole 31 penetrates the surface of the second support assembly 30 away from the support surface 100 and the two side surfaces 101. Alternatively, the support member 1 may only satisfy the condition that the second bending hole 32 penetrates the surface of the second support assembly 30 away from the support surface 100 and the two side surfaces 101. Alternatively, the support member 1 may simultaneously satisfy the condition that the first bending hole 31 penetrates the surface of the second support assembly 30 away from the support surface 100 and the two side surfaces 101, and the second bending hole 32 penetrates the surface of the second support assembly 30 away from the support surface 100 and the two side surfaces 101. This embodiment is only illustrated by the condition that the support member 1 simultaneously satisfies the condition that the first bending hole 31 penetrates the surface of the second support assembly 30 away from the support surface 100 and the two side surfaces 101, and the second bending hole 32 penetrates the surface of the second support assembly 30 away from the support surface 100 and the two side surfaces 101.

[0098] The foregoing details the specific structure of support member 1 and the unexpected technical effects brought about by each specific structure. In addition, this application also details the preparation method of the aforementioned support member 1, as follows:

[0099] Please refer to this as well. Figures 9-14 , Figure 9 This is a process flow diagram of the method for preparing the support member according to one embodiment of this application. Figures 10-14 They are respectively Figure 9 A schematic diagram corresponding to S100, S200, S300, S400, and S500 is shown in the figure. This embodiment provides a method for manufacturing a support member 1, which has a first bending region 1a. The manufacturing method includes steps S100, S200, S300, S400, and S500. Detailed descriptions of S100, S200, S300, S400, and S500 are as follows.

[0100] Please refer to Figure 10 S100 provides multiple fiber layers 10.

[0101] When preparing the support component 1, multiple fiber layers 10 can be provided first. Each fiber layer 10 can be prepared in-house or purchased directly from other sources. The fiber layer 10 is illustrated as a carbon fiber layer 10, which can also be called carbon fiber prepreg or carbon fiber prepreg fabric. Carbon fiber prepreg is obtained through carbon fiber precursor, sand spreading, and prepreg processes. Specifically, carbon fiber prepreg is a composite material made from carbon fiber yarn, epoxy resin, release paper, etc., processed through coating, hot pressing, cooling, lamination, and winding. Carbon fiber prepreg is also called carbon fiber prepreg fabric because this is only the initial impregnation of resin and carbon fiber; the final impregnation occurs during product molding. The carbon fiber support component 1 is formed by hot pressing carbon fiber prepreg. The specific preparation process of the carbon fiber prepreg is not detailed here; existing carbon fiber prepreg preparation processes can be referenced.

[0102] Optionally, when providing the multi-layer fiber layer 10, the multi-layer fiber layer 10 can be pre-cut. Cutting refers to the process of cutting the prepreg into the required size and specifications according to the shape and stacking of the support member 1, so as to facilitate subsequent laying.

[0103] Please refer to Figure 11 S200, a portion of the fiber layers 10 are stacked to obtain the first support component 20.

[0104] Subsequently, some of the fiber layers 10 in the multi-layer fiber layer 10 can be stacked one by one to finally obtain the aforementioned first support component 20. For example, when the first support component 20 includes a first fiber layer 11 and a second fiber layer 12, the first fiber layer 11 can be laid first, and then the second fiber layer 12 can be laid to obtain the first support component 20. Of course, in other embodiments, if the first support component 20 has other numbers of fiber layers 10, they can also be stacked one by one in the same way. In this case, the multi-layer fiber layer 10 can be called the first support component 20, wherein the first fiber layer 10 laid is the fiber layer 10 used to support the flexible screen 2 later.

[0105] Please refer to Figure 12 S300, the remaining fiber layers 10 are sequentially stacked on one side of the first support component 20 to obtain the second support component 30, wherein the stacking direction of the fiber layers 10 in the second support component 30 is consistent with the stacking direction of the fiber layers 10 in the first support component 20.

[0106] After laying the multiple fiber layers 10 (e.g., two fiber layers 10) of the first support component 20, the remaining fiber layers 10 can be laid one by one using the method described above. For example, when there are three remaining fiber layers 10, such as two fourth fiber layers 18 and one third fiber layer 17, the first fourth fiber layer 18 can be laid on the second fiber layer 12 in the first support component 20, then the second fourth fiber layer 18 can be laid on the first fourth fiber layer 18, and finally the third fiber layer 17 can be laid on the second fourth fiber layer 18. At this time, these three fiber layers 10 can be called the second support component 30.

[0107] Meanwhile, the stacking direction of the fiber layer 10 in the second support component 30 is consistent with the stacking direction of the fiber layer 10 in the first support component 20. This can also be understood as the fiber layer 10 in both the first support component 20 and the second support component 30 being laid layer by layer, hence the same stacking direction, which is the thickness direction of the support member 1. However, during the laying process, the first portion of the fiber layer 10 is artificially named the first support component 20, and the remaining fiber layer 10 laid later is named the second support component 30. Of course, in other embodiments, if the second support component 30 has a different number of fiber layers 10, the same method of stacking them layer by layer can also be used.

[0108] Please refer to Figure 13 S400, the first support component 20 and the multilayer fiber layer 10 in the second support component 30 are connected by a molding process to obtain the initial support component 1.

[0109] After all the fiber layers 10 are laid, they are not tightly connected but can move relatively freely. At this time, the multi-layer fiber layers 10 in the first support component 20 and the multi-layer fiber layers 10 in the second support component 30 can be connected by various molding processes. In other words, during the molding process, the resin in the adjacent fiber layers 10 will flow, thereby cross-linking the resin in the adjacent fiber layers 10 and connecting the adjacent fiber layers 10 together to obtain the support member 1 with the initial shape.

[0110] Please refer to Figure 14 S500, a first bending hole 31 is formed in the second support component 30 located in the first bending area 1a, and the support member 1 is obtained.

[0111] The initial support member 1 has a first bending area 1a in the bending region corresponding to the flexible screen 2. After obtaining the initial form of the support member 1, some processes such as size cutting and appearance modification can be performed. Subsequently, a first bending hole 31 can be formed in the second support component 30 located in the first bending area 1a, thus exposing the first support component 20. That is, all the fiber layers 10 in the second support component 30 have the first bending hole 31, so that the first support component 20 can be exposed. As for the fiber layers 10 in the first support component 20, none of them have the first bending hole 31. Therefore, the fiber layers 10 with the first bending hole 31 can be named the second support component 30, and the ones without the first bending hole 31 can be named the first support component 20. In other words, this embodiment does not create the first bending hole 31 on all fiber layers 10, but only on the lower portion of the fiber layers 10 of the support member 1. The upper portion of the fiber layers 10 does not have the first bending hole 31. This means the first bending hole 31 is only created on the side of the support member 1 facing away from the flexible screen 2. The surface of the support member 1 used to support the flexible screen 2 is not perforated; that is, the first bending hole 31 does not penetrate the upper and lower surfaces of the support member 1. Therefore, this does not affect the bending performance of the support member 1, and the support member 1 still possesses excellent bending performance. Furthermore, since the first support component 20 is not perforated, when the flexible screen 2 is placed on the support member 1 and bent, the flexible screen 2 is supported below the bending area by fiber layers 10, such as the first fiber layer 11. The support effect and flatness of the flexible screen 2 at the first bending area 1a are better, the overall light and shadow effect is improved, and creases are reduced.

[0112] Furthermore, since the flexible screen 2 is supported by a fiber layer 10 without any openings or steps, its compression resistance can be improved. For example, the compression resistance of the flexible screen 2 can be increased by 4 times. Under the same overall machine operating conditions, the flexible screen 2 can withstand a cone pressure of 8kg without failure, thus improving the reliability of the entire module. At this time, for the support member 1 as a whole, the first bending hole 31 can also be called a blind groove structure, that is, the support member 1 has a groove structure without a through hole structure. At this time, the support member 1 can also be called a carbon fiber blind groove structure support member 1.

[0113] In summary, the method for preparing the support member 1 provided in this embodiment is simple. By forming the first bending hole 31 only at the second support component 30, it not only does not affect the bending performance of the support member 1, but also improves the support effect and flatness of the flexible screen 2, resulting in better overall light and shadow effects and compression resistance, and also reduces creases.

[0114] Optionally, the molding process includes, but is not limited to, in-mold molding and can molding. When the molding process is in-mold molding, the stacked material is placed into the mold, or the material is stacked directly in the mold. Then, a vacuum is applied to the mold to remove air bubbles from the multiple fiber layers 10, and then the material is cured by heating. This step is crucial to ensuring the molding and performance of the support 1. Vacuum degassing avoids the impact of air bubbles on the performance of the support 1; heating curing allows the resin to fully cure, enhancing the bonding force between the fiber and the resin.

[0115] When the molding process is can pressing, the first support component 20 and the second support component 30, after being stacked, are transferred to the mold, bagged, and vacuum-sealed, and then placed in an autoclave for molding. In the can pressing process of the support component 1, key process parameters include pressure, temperature, time, and possible inert gas protection. These parameters directly affect the molding quality and performance of the product, but specific process parameters are not given in this embodiment and can be designed according to actual product requirements. This embodiment is only illustrative of the can pressing process.

[0116] Alternatively, after curing, the support 1 can be demolded from the mold and subjected to necessary trimming and polishing. This step removes burrs and unevenness, improving the appearance quality and precision of the support 1.

[0117] Optionally, after obtaining the initial support member 1 and before forming the first bending hole 31, the initial support member 1 can be surface-treated by applying a coating or film to its surface. This step can enhance the wear resistance and corrosion resistance of the support member 1, improve its service life and reliability, or give the support member 1 other properties. For example, the initial support member 1 can be coated with a PVD film. The PVD film is a conductive metal film deposited on the back of the support member 1, that is, on the surface of the support member 1 facing away from the flexible screen 2. It can then be used in conjunction with a radio frequency antenna to transmit signals. Furthermore, the diagonal surface impedance of the conductive metal film can be made less than 0.5Ω, thereby giving the support member 1 excellent communication capabilities and meeting reliability requirements such as environmental testing.

[0118] Alternatively, after surface treatment, the initial support 1 can be cut to obtain the desired shape and size.

[0119] Optionally, after forming the first bending hole 31, the support component 1 is not the final product. At this time, auxiliary materials, such as adhesive or release film, can be applied to the support component 1 to protect it. After applying the auxiliary materials, the support component 1 can be assembled with other components to form the flexible screen 2 mobile phone, and functional and strength tests can be performed. This step ensures that the support component 1 meets the design requirements and performance standards of the flexible screen 2 mobile phone. After passing the tests, it is finally shipped.

[0120] The preparation method of the support member 1 was mentioned above, but the specific process for forming the first bending hole 31 was not given. Depending on the different cutting and stacking processes of the fiber layer 10, this application provides several different specific processes for forming the first bending hole 31, which will be described one by one below.

[0121] Please refer to this as well. Figures 15-19 , Figure 15 This is a process flow diagram included after S200 in one embodiment of this application. Figures 16-19 They are respectively Figure 15 A schematic diagram corresponding to steps S210, S220, S230, and S240 is shown. In one embodiment, after step S200, where a portion of the multilayer fiber layers 10 are stacked to obtain the first support assembly 20, steps S210, S220, S230, and S240 are further included. Detailed descriptions of steps S210, S220, S230, and S240 are as follows.

[0122] Please refer to Figure 16 S210, the first support component 20 includes a fiber layer 10 for proximity to the second support component 30, and a protective layer 40 is formed on the surface of the fiber layer 10 near the second support component 30.

[0123] When forming the first support component 20, multiple fiber layers 10 are laid one by one. When the last fiber layer 10 is laid, it is the fiber layer 10 closest to the second support component 30 in the first support component 20. The first fiber layer 10 in the second support component 30 will then be laid on top of this fiber layer 10. A protective layer 40 is formed on the surface of this fiber layer 10 near the second support component 30. This protective layer 40 can be an original protective layer 40 of the fiber layer 10 or a subsequently added protective layer 40.

[0124] Optionally, the protective layer 40 is the original protective layer 40 of the fiber layer 10. When providing multiple fiber layers 10 in the preceding steps, a protective layer 40, such as a release film, can be provided on the opposite two sides of each fiber layer 10 to prevent the fiber layers 10 from sticking together when they are wound up. When laying multiple fiber layers 10 one by one, the protective layers 40 on opposite sides of the fiber layer 10 to be laid are usually removed first, and then laid. In this embodiment, when laying the last fiber layer 10 in the first support component 20, only the protective layer 40 on one side of the fiber layer 10 is removed, leaving the protective layer 40 on the other side. Then, the side with the removed protective layer 40 is laid on the previous fiber layer 10, so that the protective layer 40 on the other side can be close to the second support component 30.

[0125] Please refer to Figure 17 S220, remove the protective layer 40 located in the first bending area 1a and expose the fiber layer 10.

[0126] Since the first support component 20 also has a first bending area 1a, the protective layer 40 located in the first bending area 1a can be removed by laser engraving or CNC processes, thus exposing a fiber layer 10 with the protective layer 40.

[0127] Please refer to Figure 18 S230, an isolation layer 41 is formed on the exposed surface of the fiber layer 10.

[0128] Subsequently, an isolation layer 41 is formed on the exposed surface of the fiber layer 10 using various processes such as brushing, coating, PVD, and CVD. The isolation layer 41 is mainly used to separate the fiber layer 10 from the fiber layer 10 in the second support component 30, ensuring that the resin between the interface of the two fiber layers 10 does not cross-link.

[0129] Optionally, the isolation layer 41 includes, but is not limited to, a release agent. Further optionally, the release agent includes, but is not limited to, silicone-based or fluorine-based materials, thereby further preventing the two fiber layers 10 from cross-linking and bonding together. Optionally, the thickness of the isolation layer 41 is tens of nanometers or hundreds of nanometers.

[0130] Please refer to Figure 19 S240, remove the protective layer 40.

[0131] Finally, the protective layer 40 can be removed. At this point, the fiber layer 10 is located on the surface near the second support component 30, and an isolation layer 41 is provided at the first bending area 1a. Subsequently, the second support component 30 can be stacked normally, for example, multiple fiber layers 10 can be stacked sequentially on the fiber layer 10 with the isolation layer 41. During molding, the fiber layer 10 in the first support component 20 with the isolation layer 41 and the fiber layer 10 in the adjacent second support component 30 are not connected at the first bending area 1a due to the presence of the isolation layer 41. However, in other areas where the isolation layer 41 is not provided, the two fiber layers 10 are tightly connected.

[0132] Then, the fiber layer 10 corresponding to the first bending area 1a in the second support component 30 can be removed using laser engraving and other processes. Since the removed fiber layer 10 is not connected to the fiber layer 10 with the isolation layer 41 in the first support component 20, the fiber layer 10 can be removed easily, reducing the difficulty of removing the fiber layer 10.

[0133] In summary, the method for forming the first bending hole 31 provided in this embodiment can form an isolation layer 41 on the surface of the fiber layer 10 by utilizing the protective layer 40 provided by the fiber layer 10. After subsequent laser engraving, the isolation layer 41 can be used to facilitate the removal of the laser-engraved part of the fiber layer 10, thereby obtaining the required support member 1.

[0134] Alternatively, the isolation layer 41 may not be removed during laser engraving, as its thinness means it will not affect the performance of the support member 1. Alternatively, the isolation layer 41 may be removed during laser engraving, leaving only the fiber layer 10.

[0135] Similarly, the same method can be applied to the second bending zone 1b. For example, support member 1 includes five fiber layers 10, first support component 20 includes two fiber layers 10, and second support component 30 includes three fiber layers 10. When the second bending zone 1b penetrates two fiber layers 10 in the second support component 30, the two fiber layers 10 in the first support component 20 can be stacked normally. When the third fiber layer 10, i.e., the first fiber layer 10 in the second support component 30, is laid, a protective layer 40 is formed on the fiber layer 10 facing away from the surface of the first support component 20. Then, the protective layer 40 located in the second bending zone 1b is removed to expose the fiber layer 10. An isolation layer 41 is formed on the exposed surface of the fiber layer 10, and then the protective layer 40 is removed, thereby forming an isolation layer 41 on the fiber layer 10 facing away from the surface of the first support component 20, corresponding to the second bending zone 1b.

[0136] Then, the next two fiber layers 10 can be stacked. Next, the portion corresponding to the second bending area 1b in these two fiber layers 10 is removed by laser engraving. Due to the presence of the isolation layer 41, it can be easily removed to obtain the support member 1.

[0137] Please refer to this as well. Figures 20-26 , Figure 20 This is a process flow diagram of S300 in one embodiment of this application. Figures 21-26 They are respectively Figure 20 A schematic diagram corresponding to S311, S312, S313, S314, S315, and S316 is shown. In another embodiment, in step S300, the remaining fiber layers 10 are sequentially stacked on one side of the first support component 20 to obtain the second support component 30, which includes S311, S312, S313, S314, S315, and S316. A detailed description of S311, S312, S313, S314, S315, and S316 is as follows.

[0138] Please refer to Figure 21 S311, a fiber layer 10 is provided, and a protective layer 40 is formed on the surface of the fiber layer 10.

[0139] Please refer to Figure 22 S312, remove the protective layer 40 located in the first bending area 1a and expose the fiber layer 10.

[0140] Please refer to Figure 23 S313, an isolation layer 41 is formed on the exposed surface of the fiber layer 10.

[0141] Please refer to Figure 24 S314, Remove the protective layer 40.

[0142] Please refer to Figure 25 S315, the side of the fiber layer 10 with the isolation layer 41 is stacked on one side of the first support component 20.

[0143] Please refer to Figure 26 S316, the remaining fiber layers 10 are sequentially stacked on the side of the first fiber layer 10 away from the first support component 20 to obtain the second support component 30.

[0144] This embodiment is similar to the previous embodiment, both using an isolation layer 41 to facilitate the removal of the laser-engraved fiber layer 10. However, the difference in this embodiment is that the protective layer 40 is not formed on the last fiber layer 10 in the first support component 20, but rather on the fiber layer 10 closest to the first support component 20 in the second support component 30 when the first fiber layer 10 in the second support component 30 is laid. The protective layer 40 has been described in detail above, and will not be repeated here.

[0145] Subsequently, following the same preparation method as in the previous embodiment, the protective layer 40 corresponding to the first bending region 1a is removed to expose the fiber layer 10, and an isolation layer 41 is formed in the exposed area. Finally, the protective layer 40 is removed again, thereby forming the isolation layer 41 at the fiber layer 10 corresponding to the first bending region 1a. Optionally, the isolation layer 41 includes, but is not limited to, a release agent. Further optionally, the release agent includes, but is not limited to, silicone-based materials or fluorine-based materials.

[0146] Then, the side of the fiber layer 10 with the isolation layer 41 is stacked on the last fiber layer 10 in the first support assembly 20, and finally the remaining fiber layers 10 are stacked on the fiber layer 10 to obtain the second support assembly 30.

[0147] Because the first fiber layer 10 in the second support component 30 has an isolation layer 41, the first fiber layer 10 in the second support component 30 and the last fiber layer 10 in the first support component 20 are separated at the first bending area 1a by the isolation layer 41. During the subsequent molding process, the two fiber layers 10 at the first bending area 1a will not cross-link with each other; only the areas where the isolation layer 41 is not provided will be connected together. After laser engraving at the first bending area 1a, the fiber layer 10 can be easily removed to obtain the first bending hole 31.

[0148] In summary, whether the isolation layer 41 is provided on the last fiber layer 10 in the first support component 20 or on the first fiber layer 10 in the second support component 30, it can prevent the two fiber layers 10 at the first bending region 1a from cross-linking. Of course, in other embodiments, the isolation layer 41 can be provided simultaneously on the last fiber layer 10 in the first support component 20 and on the first fiber layer 10 in the second support component 30, with these two isolation layers 41 being correspondingly positioned and stacked together. The provision of the two isolation layers 41 can further prevent the two fiber layers 10 at the first bending region 1a from cross-linking.

[0149] Similarly, the same method can be applied to the second bending zone 1b. For example, if the support member 1 includes five fiber layers 10, the first support assembly 20 includes two fiber layers 10, and the second support assembly 30 includes three fiber layers 10, and the second bending zone 1b penetrates two fiber layers 10 in the second support assembly 30, the first three fiber layers 10 can be stacked normally. When the fourth fiber layer 10 is reached, an isolation layer 41 can be formed at the first bending zone 1a, which is then stacked on top of the third fiber layer 10, and finally the fifth fiber layer 10 is stacked. After laser engraving the fourth and fifth fiber layers 10, they can be easily removed to obtain the second bending hole 32.

[0150] In summary, the above two methods involve material cutting, laser release film application, release agent application, material stacking, molding or canning, inspection, and laser inspection of the shape and dimensions of the first bending area 1a and the second bending area 1b, ultimately resulting in the support component 1.

[0151] Please refer to this as well. Figures 27-31 , Figure 27 This is a process flow diagram of S300 and S500 in one embodiment of this application. Figures 28-30 They are respectively Figure 27 A schematic diagram corresponding to S321, S322, and S323. Figure 31 for Figure 27 A schematic diagram corresponding to S510 is shown. In another embodiment, in S300, the remaining fiber layers 10 are sequentially stacked on one side of the first support component 20 to obtain the second support component 30, including S321, S322, and S323. Detailed descriptions of S321, S322, and S323 are as follows.

[0152] Please refer to Figure 28 S321, each of the remaining fiber layers 10 includes a first portion 13 and a second portion 14, such that the first portion 13 and the second portion 14 are spaced apart, thereby forming a first hole 33, the first hole 33 corresponding to the first bending area 1a.

[0153] Please refer to Figure 29 S322, the remaining fiber layers 10 are stacked sequentially on one side of the first support component 20 to obtain a plurality of interconnected first holes 33, and the plurality of first holes 33 form a first bending hole 31.

[0154] Please refer to Figure 30 S323, a filler 50 is provided, the filler 50 is filled into the first bent hole 31, and the filler 50 abuts against the hole wall of the first bent hole 31.

[0155] In step S500, a first bending hole 31 is formed in the second support component 30 located in the first bending region 1a, exposing the first support component 20, thus obtaining the support member 1, including step S510. A detailed description of step S510 is as follows.

[0156] Please refer to Figure 31 S510, the filler 50 is removed to form the first bending hole 31 and the first support assembly 20 is exposed to obtain the support 1.

[0157] Since the first bending hole 31 is only opened in the second support component 30, the first support component 20 can be stacked normally. When laying the second support component 30, the fiber layer 10 can be directly divided into two parts during the cutting of the multi-layer fiber layer 10 of the second support component 30: the first part 13 and the second part 14. These two parts can be positioned and stacked by a jig, and the first part 13 and the second part 14 are spaced apart. By controlling the interval position of the first part 13 and the second part 14 to correspond to the first bending area 1a, and controlling the distance between the first part 13 and the second part 14 to be equal to the width of the required first bending hole 31, the first part 13 and the second part 14 can be arranged to form a first hole 33 with the same position and width as the first bending hole 31.

[0158] Optionally, when cutting the fiber layer 10 in the second support component 30, the portion corresponding to the first bending area 1a can be removed directly. In this way, when using a jig to position and stack the material, the edge of the fiber layer 10 can be flush with the edge of the first support component 20, and the first hole 33 with the position and width corresponding to the first bending hole 31 can be automatically formed.

[0159] The fiber layers 10 in the second support component 30 can then be stacked sequentially to obtain a plurality of interconnected first holes 33, which can form the required first bending hole 31.

[0160] Then a filler 50 is provided, which can be placed in the first bending hole 31 and fill the first bending hole 31, so that the filler 50 abuts against the hole wall of the first bending hole 31, and the first bending hole 31 will be covered by the filler 50.

[0161] Since the filler 50 completely fills the first bending hole 31, it will not affect the dimensional accuracy of the support 1 during subsequent molding. For example, it will not cause misalignment or displacement at the first hole 33 under pressure, thus ensuring the required dimensions are obtained. Therefore, after molding, there is no need for laser engraving; the first bending hole 31 can be exposed again simply by removing the filler 50.

[0162] Optionally, the filler 50 includes, but is not limited to, release film materials, including but not limited to PI, PET, PO, PP, etc. These release films do not cross-link with the resin in the fiber layer 10 during molding, facilitating the subsequent removal of the filler 50. Optionally, the dimensions of the filler 50, such as its length, width, and height, are equal to the length, width, and height of the first bending hole 31, thereby ensuring a good fit between the filler 50 and the first bending hole 31.

[0163] In summary, this embodiment uses the method of forming the first bending hole 31 during the stacking process, and then filling it completely with filler 50 to ensure the stability of the dimensions of the support 1 during the molding process.

[0164] Similarly, the same method can be used for the second bending zone 1b. For example, if the support member 1 includes five fiber layers 10, the first support component 20 includes two fiber layers 10, and the second support component 30 includes three fiber layers 10, and the second bending zone 1b penetrates two fiber layers 10 in the second support component 30, the first three fiber layers 10 can be stacked normally. During the cutting process, the fourth and fifth fiber layers 10 can be directly removed from the portion corresponding to the second bending zone 1b. Then, using a jig for positioning and stacking, the second bending hole 32 can be directly formed. Subsequently, a filler 50 is inserted into the second bending hole 32, and the filler 50 is removed after forming.

[0165] Please refer to this as well. Figures 32-38 , Figure 32 This is a process flow diagram of S300 and S500 in another embodiment of this application. Figures 33-36 They are respectively Figure 32 The diagrams corresponding to S331, S332, S333, and S334 are shown. Figures 37-38 They are respectively Figure 32 The diagrams corresponding to S520 and S530 are shown below. In another embodiment, in S300, the remaining fiber layers 10 are sequentially stacked on one side of the first support component 20 to obtain the second support component 30, which includes S331, S332, S333, and S334. Detailed descriptions of S331, S332, S333, and S334 are as follows.

[0166] Please refer to Figure 33 S331, the remaining fiber layer 10 includes a first fiber layer group 15 and a second fiber layer group 16. Each fiber layer 10 in the first fiber layer group 15 includes a first part 13 and a second part 14, such that the first part 13 and the second part 14 are spaced apart, thereby forming a first hole 33 by the first part 13 and the second part 14. The first hole 33 corresponds to the first bending area 1a.

[0167] Please refer to Figure 34 S332, the fiber layers 10 in the first fiber layer group 15 are stacked sequentially on one side of the first support component 20 to obtain a plurality of interconnected first holes 33.

[0168] Please refer to Figure 35 S333, a filler 50 is provided, the filler 50 is filled into a plurality of first holes 33, and the filler 50 abuts against the hole wall of the first hole 33.

[0169] Please refer to Figure 36 S334, the fiber layers 10 in the second fiber layer group 16 are sequentially stacked on the side of the first fiber layer group 15 away from the first support component 20 to obtain the second support component 30.

[0170] In step S500, a first bending hole 31 is formed in the second support component 30 located in the first bending area 1a, exposing the first support component 20, thus obtaining the support member 1, including steps S520 and S530. Detailed descriptions of steps S520 and S530 are as follows.

[0171] Please refer to Figure 37 S520, in the second fiber layer group 16, a second hole 34 is formed in the fiber layer 10 corresponding to the plurality of first holes 33, and the filler 50 is exposed. The second hole 34 connects the plurality of first holes 33, and the second hole 34 and the first holes 33 form a first bending hole 31.

[0172] Please refer to Figure 38 S530, the filler 50 is removed to form the first bending hole 31 and the first support assembly 20 is exposed to obtain the support 1.

[0173] This embodiment is largely the same as the previous embodiment, also using filler 50 for filling. However, unlike the previous embodiment, this embodiment does not divide all the fiber layers 10 in the second support assembly 30 into two parts. Instead, it divides the fiber layers 10 closer to the first support assembly 20 into two parts. These divided fiber layers 10 can also be referred to as the first fiber layer group 15. The fiber layers 10 in the first fiber layer group 15 are the same as in the previous embodiment, forming multiple first holes 33. However, these multiple first holes 33 are not all of the first bending holes 31, but only a portion of the first bending holes 31. Subsequently, filler 50 is filled into the multiple first holes 33. The fiber layers 10 farther from the first support assembly 20 can be laid directly as a whole layer on the first fiber layer group 15 without being divided into two parts, thus covering the filler 50.

[0174] During molding, the presence of the filler 50 ensures the stability of the support 1's dimensions. Furthermore, the filler 50 is partially covered by a fiber layer 10, preventing it from falling out of the first hole 33 and ensuring its stability. Additionally, since some fiber layers 10 are not yet perforated, after molding, second holes 34 can be formed at the locations of the first holes 33 corresponding to the fiber layers 10 in the second fiber layer group 16, exposing the filler 50. The carved-out fiber layers 10 can also be easily removed. The second holes 34 can connect to the first holes 33, and together they form the first bent hole 31. During carving, the presence of the filler 50 improves carving accuracy and prevents dimensional errors in the second hole 34. Finally, because the second hole 34 is carved out, exposing the filler 50, it can be removed from the second hole 34, resulting in a complete first bent hole 31.

[0175] Optionally, the filler 50 includes, but is not limited to, release film materials, including but not limited to PI, PET, PO, PP, etc. These release films do not cross-link with the resin in the fiber layer 10 during molding, facilitating the subsequent removal of the filler 50. Optionally, the dimensions of the filler 50, such as its length, width, and height, are equal to the length, width, and height of the plurality of first holes 33, thereby ensuring a good fit between the filler 50 and the first holes 33.

[0176] In summary, this embodiment involves forming a partial first bending hole 31 during the stacking process, then partially filling it with filler 50 before covering it with the complete fiber layer 10, then laser-etching this part of the fiber layer 10, and finally removing the filler 50. This not only ensures the stability of the support 1's dimensions during the molding process, but also improves the stability of the filler 50 and prevents the filler 50 from falling off.

[0177] Similarly, the same method can be used for the second bending area 1b. For example, support member 1 includes five fiber layers 10, first support component 20 includes two fiber layers 10, and second support component 30 includes three fiber layers 10. When the second bending area 1b penetrates two fiber layers 10 in the second support component 30, the first three fiber layers 10 can be stacked normally. During the cutting process, the fourth fiber layer 10 can directly remove the part corresponding to the second bending area 1b. Then, using a jig for positioning and stacking, the first hole 33 can be directly formed. Then, filler 50 is inserted into the first hole 33, and the fifth fiber layer 10 is laid on the fourth fiber layer 10 to cover the filler 50. Then, the fifth fiber layer 10 is laser-etched to obtain the second hole 34 that connects to the first hole 33. Finally, the filler 50 is removed, and the first hole 33 and the second hole 34 can form the first bending hole 31.

[0178] In summary, the above two methods involve material cutting, stacking, placing a release film in the middle, molding or canning, inspection, and laser inspection of the shape and dimensions of the inner and outer bending areas to finally obtain the support component 1.

[0179] Please refer to this as well. Figures 39-40 , Figure 39 This is a process flow diagram included after S323 or S333 in one embodiment of this application. Figure 40 for Figure 39 A schematic diagram corresponding to S340 is shown below. After providing the filler 50 in S323 or S333, S340 is also included. A detailed description of S340 is as follows.

[0180] Please refer to Figure 40 S340, an isolation layer 41 is formed on the outer surface of the filler 50.

[0181] In both of the above embodiments, a filler 50 is used to fill the first hole 33 to prevent the dimensional accuracy of the first bending hole 31 of the support 1 from being affected during subsequent molding or even engraving processes. Furthermore, the filler 50 needs to be removed later. Therefore, an isolation layer 41 can be formed on the outer surface of the filler 50. This isolation layer 41 can separate the filler 50 from the fiber layer 10, thereby preventing the filler 50 from cross-linking with the resin in the fiber layer 10 during molding and facilitating the subsequent removal of the filler 50.

[0182] Optionally, the release layer 41 includes, but is not limited to, a release agent. Further optionally, the release agent includes, but is not limited to, silicone-based or fluorine-based materials.

[0183] In summary, this application innovatively utilizes a five- or multi-layer fabrication design and a process innovation involving the placement of a release agent or the filling of a release film in the middle, thus pioneering a method for preparing a support member 1 with a blind groove structure.

[0184] Please refer to this again. Figure 2 This application also provides a flexible display module 3, which includes a flexible screen 2 and a support member 1 as provided in the above embodiments of this application. The flexible screen 2 has a display surface, and the first support component 20 of the support member 1 is disposed on the side of the flexible screen 2 away from the display surface.

[0185] The flexible display module 3 mainly consists of a flexible screen 2 and a support member 1. The flexible screen 2 is a component with a certain degree of flexibility, and compared to a rigid component, the flexible screen 2 can be bent to a certain extent. For example, the flexible screen 2 includes, but is not limited to, flexible displays, flexible touch screens, flexible touch displays, and other flexible components with corresponding functions, or flexible components that are fixedly attached to the flexible support member 1, such as flexible displays and flexible touch screens attached to the flexible support member 1. This embodiment only uses flexible displays and flexible touch screens attached to the flexible support member 1 for illustrative purposes, and the flexible support member 1 is the support member 1 mentioned in the above embodiment of this application. The flexible screen 2 has a display surface for displaying images, and the first support component 20 in the support member 1 can be disposed on the side of the flexible screen 2 away from the display surface, that is, the support member 1 is attached to the side of the flexible screen 2 that is not the display surface. As for the connection method between the support member 1 and the flexible screen 2, they can be fixedly connected by means of adhesive bonding, snap-fit ​​connection, etc., and the first bending area 1a and even the second bending area 1b of the support member 1 correspond to the various bending areas of the flexible screen 2.

[0186] The flexible display module 3 provided in this embodiment, by adopting the support member 1 provided in the above embodiment of this application, forms a first bending hole 31 only at the second support component 30, which not only does not affect the bending performance of the flexible display module 3, but also improves the support effect and flatness of the flexible screen 2, resulting in better overall light and shadow effects and compression resistance, and also reduces creases.

[0187] Please refer to this as well. Figures 41-43 , Figure 41 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the electronic device in the unfolded state according to one embodiment of this application. Figure 42 for Figure 41 The exploded view of the electronic device shown. Figure 43 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of an electronic device in a folded state according to one embodiment of this application. This application also provides an electronic device 4, which includes a first housing 61, a second housing 62, a folding device 70, and a flexible display module 3 as described in the above embodiments of this application. The folding device 70 has its opposite ends connected to the first housing 61 and the second housing 62, respectively. The flexible display module 3 is disposed on the same side of the first housing 61, the second housing 62, and the folding device 70.

[0188] Electronic device 4 includes, but is not limited to, mobile terminals such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops, handheld computers, personal computers (PCs), personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable media players (PMPs), navigation devices, wearable devices, smart bracelets, pedometers, etc., as well as fixed terminals such as digital TVs and desktop computers. This embodiment only uses a foldable mobile phone as an example for illustrative purposes.

[0189] The first housing 61 and the second housing 62 are mainly used to mount and support various components of the electronic device 4. For example, a flexible display module 3 can be mounted on the first housing 61 and the second housing 62. Functional modules such as batteries, PCB assemblies, speakers, earpieces, and buttons can also be installed inside the first housing 61 and the second housing 62. Therefore, the first housing 61 and the second housing 62 mainly serve the functions of mounting and protection. In some embodiments, the surfaces of the first housing 61 and the second housing 62 can also serve as appearance surfaces. Therefore, the surfaces of the first housing 61 and the second housing 62 can be designed accordingly to give the first housing 61 and the second housing 62 a unique appearance. This embodiment does not limit the shape, material, structure, or other parameters of the first housing 61 and the second housing 62, as long as the functions of mounting and protection are achieved. For example, the material of the first housing 61 and the second housing 62 can be entirely metal, entirely plastic, or partially metal and partially plastic.

[0190] The folding device 70, also known as a pivot or hinge, is mainly used to fold the electronic device 4. The two ends of the folding device 70 can be connected to the first housing 61 and the second housing 62 respectively. For example, one end of the folding device 70 is connected to the first housing 61, and the other end is connected to the second housing 62. The folding device 70 can be unfolded or folded through its internal structure. When the folding device 70 is unfolded, it flattens outwards, along with the first housing 61 and the second housing 62 on both sides, thus placing the electronic device 4 in an unfolded state. When the folding device 70 is folded, it causes the first housing 61 and the second housing 62 on both sides to fold simultaneously, thus placing the electronic device 4 in a folded state. For example, the electronic device 4 can be in an outward folded state, or it can be in an inward folded state. This embodiment only illustrates the inward folded state. Optionally, the folding device 70 can connect the first housing 61 and the second housing 62 by screws, snap-fit ​​connections, adhesive bonding, or other methods.

[0191] The flexible display module 3 is located on the same side of the first housing 61, the second housing 62, and the folding device 70 in the electronic device 4, and can be bent or flattened along with the first housing 61, the second housing 62, and the folding device 70. Specifically, the flexible display module 3 also has a first bending area 1a and non-bending areas located on opposite sides of the first bending area 1a. The flexible display module 3 in the first bending area 1a is disposed corresponding to the folding device 70, and the flexible display module 3 in the non-bending areas is fixed to the first housing 61 and the second housing 62 by double-sided adhesive. Since the flexible display module 3 in the first bending area 1a is disposed corresponding to the folding device 70, when the folding device 70 moves, the first housing 61, the second housing 62, and the components in the folding device 70 together drive the flexible display module 3 to fold in a teardrop shape. Since the non-bending area is fixed on the first housing 61 and the second housing 62, the first housing 61 and the second housing 62 will only rotate relative to each other and will not change their shape. Therefore, even if the first housing 61 and the second housing 62 rotate, the flexible display module 3 on the first housing 61 and the second housing 62 will not bend.

[0192] The electronic device 4 provided in this embodiment, by adopting the flexible display module 3 provided in the above-described embodiments of this application, forms a first bending hole 31 only at the second support component 30, which not only does not affect the bending performance of the electronic device 4, but also improves the support effect and flatness of the flexible screen 2, resulting in better overall light and shadow effects and compression resistance, and also reduces creases.

[0193] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0194] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise expressly specified. Moreover, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0195] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part. They can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection. They can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in this application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0196] The foregoing has provided a detailed description of the embodiments of this application, elucidating and explaining the principles and implementation methods of this application. These descriptions are merely for the purpose of aiding understanding the method and core ideas of this application. However, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of this application. Those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this application without departing from its spirit and scope. These modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A support member, characterized in that, The support member has a first bending area. The support member includes multiple layers of fiber stacked together. The multiple layers of fiber stacked together include a first support component and a second support component stacked together with the first support component. The first support component is used to support the flexible screen. The second support component located in the first bending area has a first bending hole that penetrates through the second support component.

2. The support member as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first support component includes a first fiber layer and a second fiber layer. The first fiber layer is used to support the flexible screen, and the second fiber layer is disposed between the first fiber layer and the second support component. The extension direction of the fibers in the first fiber layer has a first angle ∠A with the bending axis of the support component, and the extension direction of the fibers in the second fiber layer has a second angle ∠B with the bending axis of the support component. Wherein, 80°≤∠A≤100°, 0°≤∠B≤10°.

3. The support member as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The second support component includes a third fiber layer and a fourth fiber layer, wherein the third fiber layer is farther away from the first support component than the fourth fiber layer; wherein the extension direction of the fibers in the third fiber layer is the same as the extension direction of the fibers in the first fiber layer, and the extension direction of the fibers in the fourth fiber layer is the same as the extension direction of the fibers in the second fiber layer.

4. The support member as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The first fiber layer, the second fiber layer, the third fiber layer, and the fourth fiber layer satisfy at least one of the following conditions: The elastic modulus of the first fiber layer is less than that of the second fiber layer, and the elastic modulus of the third fiber layer is less than that of the fourth fiber layer. The basis weight of the first fiber layer is less than that of the second fiber layer, and the basis weight of the third fiber layer is less than that of the fourth fiber layer.

5. The support member as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The support member has two second bending regions located on opposite sides of the first bending region. A second bending hole is provided in the second support component located in the second bending region in a direction away from the first support component. The second bending hole penetrates part of the fiber layer of the second support component. When the support member is in a bent state, the bending direction of the support member in the first bending region is opposite to the bending direction of the support member in the second bending region.

6. The support member as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The support member has a support surface for supporting the flexible screen and two side surfaces that are bent to connect opposite sides of the support surface. The first bending hole and the second bending hole satisfy at least one of the following conditions: The first bending hole penetrates the surface of the second support assembly opposite to the support surface, as well as the two side surfaces; The second bending hole penetrates the surface of the second support assembly opposite to the support surface and the two side surfaces.

7. The support member as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The support member has a support surface for supporting the flexible screen, the first bending hole has a first top wall near the support surface, the second bending hole has a second top wall near the support surface, and the support member satisfies at least one of the following conditions: The vertical distance from the supporting surface to the first top wall is 0.03mm-0.09mm; The vertical distance from the support surface to the second top wall is 0.06mm-0.12mm.

8. A method for preparing a support member, characterized in that, The support member has a first bending region, and the manufacturing method includes: Provides multiple fiber layers; By stacking a portion of the fiber layers in the multi-layered fiber layer, a first support component is obtained; The remaining fiber layers are sequentially stacked on one side of the first support component to obtain a second support component, wherein the stacking direction of the fiber layers in the second support component is consistent with the stacking direction of the fiber layers in the first support component. The first support component is connected to the multi-layer fiber layer in the second support component through a molding process to obtain an initial support component; The support member is obtained by forming a first bending hole through the second support component located in the first bending area.

9. The preparation method according to claim 8, characterized in that, After stacking a portion of the fiber layers in the multilayer fiber layers to obtain the first support assembly, the method further includes: The first support component includes a fiber layer for proximity to the second support component, the fiber layer having a protective layer formed on the surface of the second support component; Remove the protective layer located in the first bending area to expose the fiber layer; An insulating layer is formed on the exposed surface of the fiber layer; Remove the protective layer.

10. The preparation method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The step of sequentially stacking the remaining fiber layers on one side of the first support assembly to obtain the second support assembly includes: A fiber layer is provided, and a protective layer is formed on the surface of the fiber layer; Remove the protective layer located in the first bending area to expose the fiber layer; An insulating layer is formed on the exposed surface of the fiber layer; Remove the protective layer; The fiber layer with the isolation layer is stacked on one side of the first support component; The remaining fiber layers are sequentially stacked on the side of the first fiber layer opposite to the first support component to obtain the second support component.

11. The preparation method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The step of sequentially stacking the remaining fiber layers on one side of the first support assembly to obtain the second support assembly includes: Each of the remaining fiber layers includes a first portion and a second portion, such that the first portion and the second portion are spaced apart, thereby forming a first hole, the first hole corresponding to the first bending area; The remaining fiber layers are stacked sequentially on one side of the first support component to obtain a plurality of interconnected first holes, which together form a first bending hole. A filler is provided, which is then filled into the first bend hole and abutted against the wall of the first bend hole. The step of forming a first bending hole in the second support component located in the first bending area and exposing the first support component to obtain a support member includes: The filler is removed to form the first bending hole and expose the first support assembly, thus obtaining the support.

12. The preparation method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The step of sequentially stacking the remaining fiber layers on one side of the first support assembly to obtain the second support assembly includes: The remaining fiber layers include a first fiber layer group and a second fiber layer group. Each fiber layer in the first fiber layer group includes a first part and a second part, such that the first part and the second part are spaced apart, thereby forming a first hole by the first part and the second part. The first hole corresponds to the first bending area. The fiber layers in the first fiber layer group are stacked sequentially on one side of the first support component to obtain a plurality of interconnected first holes; A filler is provided, which is then filled into a plurality of the first holes and abutted against the wall of the first hole; The fiber layers in the second fiber layer group are sequentially stacked on the side of the first fiber layer group away from the first support component to obtain the second support component; The step of forming a first bending hole in the second support component located in the first bending area and exposing the first support component to obtain a support member includes: In the second fiber layer group, a second hole is formed at the fiber layer corresponding to the plurality of first holes, thereby exposing the filler. The second hole connects to the plurality of first holes, and the second hole and the first hole form a first bending hole. The filler is removed to form the first bending hole and expose the first support assembly, thus obtaining the support.

13. The preparation method according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, Following the provision of the filler, the following is also included: An isolation layer is formed on the outer surface of the filler.

14. A flexible display module, characterized in that, The flexible display module includes a flexible screen and a support member as described in any one of claims 1-7, wherein the flexible screen has a display surface, and a first support component of the support member is disposed on the side of the flexible screen opposite to the display surface.

15. An electronic device, characterized in that, The electronic device includes a first housing, a second housing, a folding device, and a flexible display module as described in claim 14. The opposite ends of the folding device are respectively connected to the first housing and the second housing, and the flexible display module is disposed on the same side of the first housing, the second housing, and the folding device.

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