Folding test device and control method thereof

Abstract

Disclosed is a folding test device having a plurality of test units provided with a clamp that is folded or unfolded depending on a rotation direction of a driving unit to hold a test object, and a control method thereof. The device includes a control unit that groups K / 2 of K (where K=2n, n being a positive integer) test units into a first group and the remaining K / 2 into a second group, and controls the driving unit such that a folding operation and an unfolding operation are alternately performed for each clamp of the first group and each clamp of the second group.

Description

Cross-references to related applications

[0001] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0110364 filed on August 11, 2025 and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0116666 filed on August 21, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention generally relates to a folding test apparatus and control method for flexible devices, and more specifically, to a folding test apparatus and control method that allows simultaneous control of multiple test units to precisely synchronize the forward and reverse rotational movement of clamps securing the test object, thereby reducing vibrations generated during the folding or unfolding operation of the clamps. Background Technology

[0003] With the rapid advancements in electrical and electronic materials in recent years, various types of flexible devices, such as flexible printed circuit boards (PCBs), chip-on-flexible boards (COFs), and foldable displays, are being developed. These flexible devices can be stretched and deformed by external forces.

[0004] Because these flexible devices have the ability to bend or fold flexibly as needed, they can significantly improve the portability, storage, and usability of electrical and electronic products that use them.

[0005] Because flexible devices are typically made of thin and lightweight materials, significant localized stresses occur at the interface between the fixed and foldable areas during product use, which can lead to serious reliability issues such as wrinkling or cracking.

[0006] Therefore, folding test equipment has been proposed to repeatedly test and evaluate folding (bending) characteristics or durability against folding stress to ensure the reliability of flexible devices.

[0007] For example, folding test equipment can perform inward folding tests on flexible devices with their surfaces facing each other; outward folding tests with the front and rear surfaces facing each other; or hybrid tests combining these methods.

[0008] To ensure reliability, even when the test object is repeatedly folded and unfolded 180 degrees over a long period of time, the folding test equipment requires the motor to rotate at a constant speed in either the forward or reverse direction.

[0009] Recently, in order to improve testing efficiency, multiple test units are now installed in a single folding test fixture, which allows multiple test objects to be tested simultaneously to evaluate collective durability.

[0010] However, in the case of existing folding test devices, when the rotation center of the fixture that sets (fixes) the test object does not match the axis of the motor, irregular forces are applied due to defects such as mass imbalance and misalignment. This results in the transmission of full rotational force and forces acting in the left and right directions to the rotation center of the fixture, causing friction and vibration.

[0011] Furthermore, in high-speed folding test environments, excessive resonance occurs due to operational deviations and vibration bias between multiple test units, doubling the amplitude and resulting in significantly increased vibration. This vibration may act as a factor reducing the accuracy of reliability tests conducted under the assumption that only bending force is applied to the test object.

[0012] In addition, there are the following disadvantages: repetitive stress caused by vibration can accelerate the fatigue and wear of the components that make up the folding test device, generate noise, and cause structural damage in severe cases, such as loss of balance and degradation of the performance of the folding test device, resulting in reduced operating efficiency and increased energy consumption.

[0013] It should be noted that the background or prior art described herein, as information owned by the inventor or acquired during the development and completion of this invention, is intended to help understand the technical significance of this invention and to be used in prior art retrieval and examination, and does not imply technology that was generally known and widely used in the technical field to which this invention pertains prior to the submission of this invention.

[0014] Existing technical documents

[0015] [Patent Document 1] Korean Patent No. 10-2024-0083951 A (Publication Date: June 13, 2024)

[0016] [Patent Document 2] Korean Patent No. 10-2024-0173115 A (Publication Date: 2024.12.10.)

[0017] [Patent Document 3] Korean Patent No. 10-1527815 B1 (Approval Date: June 4, 2015)

[0018] [Patent Document 4] Korean Patent No. 10-2396453 B1 (Approval Date: 2022.05.04.)

[0019] [Patent Document 5] Korean Patent No. 10-2840446 B1 (Approval Date: July 24, 2025) Summary of the Invention

[0020] Therefore, taking into account the factors mentioned above and aiming to solve the inherent technical limitations and problems in existing folding test equipment for flexible devices, the inventors of this invention have made great efforts and research to develop a folding test device and its control method according to this disclosure. The folding test device and its control method cause the phases of the periodic vibrations generated during the high-speed folding or unfolding operation of multiple clamps to be staggered to disperse the impact and vibration, and cause the phase differences between the vibrations to be staggered to generate destructive interference, thereby attenuating the vibration. Furthermore, the folding or unfolding operation of the clamps operated by the forward and reverse rotation of the motor is synchronized in real time and accurately, thereby minimizing the motion deviation and vibration bias between the clamps generated during the folding test and suppressing resonance.

[0021] Therefore, the technical objective of this invention is to provide a folding test apparatus and its control method that can attenuate vibrations generated during the folding or unfolding operation of a fixture.

[0022] Another technical objective of this invention is to provide a folding test apparatus and its control method that can minimize vibration bias and deviation during the folding and unfolding operations of the fixture.

[0023] The technical objectives of this invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical objectives not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art based on the following description.

[0024] To achieve the objectives of this invention, according to one embodiment of the invention, a folding testing apparatus having multiple test units is provided, the multiple test units being fitted with clamps that fold or unfold depending on the rotation direction of a drive unit to hold the test object. The apparatus includes a control unit that groups K / 2 of the K test units (where K = 2n, n is a positive integer) into a first group and the remaining K / 2 into a second group, and controls the drive unit such that folding and unfolding operations are alternately performed for each clamp in the first group and each clamp in the second group.

[0025] Therefore, the present invention can achieve the effect of dispersing and attenuating the vibrations that occur during the simultaneous folding or unfolding of multiple clamps by interleaving the phases of the periodic vibrations.

[0026] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the test units of the first group can be arranged at the (2n-1)th position (where n is a positive integer), and the test units of the second group can be arranged at the (2n)th position.

[0027] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, multiple test units belonging to at least one of the first group or the second group can be arranged in series.

[0028] In addition, according to one embodiment of the invention, the control unit can control each drive unit in the first and second groups of test units at position (2n-1) (where n is a positive integer) and each drive unit in the first and second groups of test units at position (2n) rotate in opposite directions to allow folding and unfolding operations of each clamp in the test unit at position (2n-1) and each clamp in the test unit at position (2n) to be performed alternately.

[0029] Therefore, the present invention can achieve the effect of dispersing and attenuating the vibrations that occur during the simultaneous folding or unfolding of multiple clamps by interleaving the phases of the periodic vibrations.

[0030] In addition, according to one embodiment of the invention, the control unit can control each drive unit of all test units in the first group and each drive unit of all test units in the second group to rotate in opposite directions to each other, so as to allow the folding and unfolding operations of each clamp in the first group and each clamp in the second group to be performed alternately.

[0031] Therefore, the present invention can achieve the effect of dispersing and attenuating the vibrations that occur during the simultaneous folding or unfolding of multiple clamps by interleaving the phases of the periodic vibrations.

[0032] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the device may further include a sensor unit that detects the rotation axis position and rotation angle of each drive unit in the test unit to detect the folding or unfolding state of each fixture in the test unit in real time.

[0033] The control unit can receive predetermined position signals from the sensor unit depending on the folding or unfolding operation of each fixture in the test unit, compare the reception time difference of the received position signals, and execute the next command cycle when all position signals are received within similar or identical time periods and points within a predetermined range, and execute the next command cycle after synchronizing the fixtures by delaying the folding or unfolding operations of other fixtures when all position signals are received within dissimilar or different time periods and points within a predetermined range.

[0034] Therefore, the present invention can synchronize the forward and reverse rotational movement of the motor-driven fixture in real time and accurately, thereby minimizing the operational deviation and vibration bias between the fixtures during the folding test and suppressing resonance phenomena.

[0035] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the clamp may include a first clamp having a first surface and a second clamp having a second surface, and the drive unit may include an electric motor that drives at least one of the first clamp and the second clamp to perform a folding or unfolding operation.

[0036] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the control unit can control the rotation speed of each drive unit so that the folding or unfolding operation of each fixture in the test unit has a speed of less than 1 second.

[0037] Therefore, even when the high-speed driven clamp is folding or unfolding, the present invention can suppress the sudden increase in vibration amplitude and vibration energy.

[0038] In addition, according to another embodiment of the present invention, a control method for a folding testing apparatus having a plurality of test units is provided, the plurality of test units being fitted with clamps that fold or unfold depending on the rotation direction of a drive unit to hold the test object, the method comprising grouping K / 2 of K (where K=2n, n is a positive integer) test units into a first group and grouping the remaining K / 2 into a second group; and controlling the drive unit such that folding and unfolding operations are alternately performed for each clamp in the first group and each clamp in the second group.

[0039] Therefore, the present invention can achieve the effect of dispersing and attenuating the vibrations that occur during the simultaneous folding or unfolding of multiple clamps by interleaving the phases of the periodic vibrations.

[0040] Furthermore, according to another embodiment of the invention, the control of the drive unit may further include controlling such that each drive unit in the first and second groups of test units at the (2n-1)th position (where n is a positive integer) and each drive unit in the first and second groups of test units at the (2n)th position rotates in opposite directions to each other, so as to allow the folding and unfolding operations of each clamp in the test unit at the (2n-1)th position and each clamp in the test unit at the (2n)th position to alternate.

[0041] Therefore, the present invention can achieve the effect of dispersing and attenuating the vibrations that occur during the simultaneous folding or unfolding of multiple clamps by interleaving the phases of the periodic vibrations.

[0042] Furthermore, according to another embodiment of the invention, the control of the drive unit may further include controlling such that each drive unit of all test units in the first group and each drive unit of all test units in the second group rotates in opposite directions to each other, so as to allow the folding and unfolding operations of each clamp in the first group and each clamp in the second group to be performed alternately.

[0043] Therefore, the present invention can achieve the effect of dispersing and attenuating the vibrations that occur during the simultaneous folding or unfolding of multiple clamps by interleaving the phases of the periodic vibrations.

[0044] Furthermore, according to another embodiment of the present invention, the method may further include detecting the rotation axis position and rotation angle of each drive unit in the test unit to detect the folding or unfolding state of each fixture in the test unit in real time; receiving a predetermined position signal depending on the folding or unfolding operation of each fixture in the test unit, and comparing the reception time difference of the received position signals; and when all position signals are received within similar or identical time periods and points in a predetermined range, determining that the folding or unfolding operation is completed by each fixture of the test unit, and executing the next command cycle.

[0045] Therefore, the present invention can synchronize the forward and reverse rotational movement of the clamp driven by the electric motor in real time and accurately, thereby minimizing the movement deviation and vibration bias between the clamps during the folding test and suppressing the resonance phenomenon.

[0046] Furthermore, according to another embodiment of the invention, the method may further include executing the next command cycle after synchronizing the clamps by delaying the folding or unfolding operations of the other clamps, until all position signals are received at dissimilar or different time periods and points within a predetermined range, until the position signals reach the clamp with the slowest receiving speed.

[0047] Therefore, the present invention can not only more accurately and precisely synchronize and correct the forward and reverse rotational motion of the clamp driven by the electric motor in real time, but also suppress the sudden increase in vibration amplitude and vibration energy even when the clamp is folded or unfolded at high speed.

[0048] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a unique solution based on technical objectives is provided, which can distribute shocks and vibrations without concentration by interleaving the phases of the periodic vibrations generated during the high-speed folding or unfolding operation of multiple clamps, and the phase difference of the vibrations can cause destructive interference, which can significantly reduce vibration energy, frequency and amplitude.

[0049] In addition, the folding or unfolding operation of the fixture operated by the forward and reverse rotation of the motor can be synchronized in real time and accurately to minimize the operation deviation and vibration bias between the fixtures during the folding test and suppress resonance as much as possible.

[0050] Therefore, it can minimize fatigue and wear caused by component vibration in high-speed folding test environments and improve the durability and reliability of the equipment.

[0051] The benefits of this invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other benefits not mentioned will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the description of the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0052] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a folding test apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 2 This is a perspective view illustrating the operational state of a folding test apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a folding test apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a folding test apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Figure 5 This is a perspective view illustrating the operational state of a folding test apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a folding test apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 7 The waveform diagram illustrates the vibration analysis results during folding or unfolding operations of an example of using a folding test apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 8 The waveform diagram illustrates the vibration analysis results of a comparative example 1 using a folding test apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 9 This is a time waveform diagram showing the vibration analysis results of a comparative example 2 using a folding test apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Figure Labels

[0062] 10, 20, 30, 40: Test Units

[0063] 11, 21, 31, 41: Drive units

[0064] 12, 22, 32, 42: Fixtures

[0065] 13, 23, 33, 43: Sensor Units

[0066] 50: Control Unit Detailed Implementation

[0067] In the following description, embodiments of the invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0068] It should be noted that the terms described below have been defined with regard to their function within the present invention and should be interpreted in accordance with concepts consistent with the technical spirit of the present invention and meanings commonly used or generally accepted in the relevant technical field.

[0069] Furthermore, detailed descriptions of known functions or configurations related to this invention will be omitted when they are deemed to obscure the gist of the invention.

[0070] The accompanying drawings may be exaggerated or simplified to facilitate explanation and understanding of the structure and operation of the technology. It should be noted that individual components depicted in the drawings may not perfectly match their actual dimensions and shapes.

[0071] Furthermore, the term "and / or" in this specification means a combination of or inclusion of any of the related items described herein. Additionally, when it is said that a part includes a component, this does not exclude other components, but rather implies their inclusion, unless otherwise specifically stated.

[0072] That is, it should be understood that the terms “comprising” or “having” as used herein imply the presence of a feature, number, step, process, operation, component, part or combination thereof, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, processes, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0073] Furthermore, each process and step may occur in a different order than the stated order, unless the context explicitly specifies a particular order. That is, each process and step may occur in the same order as the stated order, may be performed substantially simultaneously, or may be performed in the reverse order.

[0074] Additionally, as used herein, the terms “part” and “unit” can refer to a module-type unit or role that can be implemented by means such as hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software, and is intended for at least one function or operation of a device or system, or a device or component capable of independent operation.

[0075] Furthermore, the term “module” as used herein may refer to a unit comprising one or more combinations of hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as unit, logic, logic block, component, and circuit, which may be the smallest unit or part of an integrated configuration of components, the smallest unit or part of one or more functions, and may be implemented mechanically or electronically.

[0076] Additionally, terms such as “top,” “bottom,” “upper surface,” “lower surface,” “upper side,” “lower side,” “front / back,” and “left / right,” as used herein, are used to conveniently distinguish the relative positions of each component. For example, the upper side in a figure can be designated as the top, and the lower side can be designated as the bottom, and the length direction can be designated as the front-to-back direction, and the width direction can be designated as the left-to-right direction.

[0077] Furthermore, terms such as "first" and "second" may be used to describe various components. In other words, terms such as "first" and "second" may be used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0078] Best mode for carrying out the invention

[0079] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 According to one embodiment of the invention, the folding test apparatus tests durability and reliability by repeatedly bending a flexible test object, such as a flexible device, and includes a plurality of test units 10, 20, 30 and 40, a control unit 50, and sensor units 13, 23, 33 and 43 mounted side by side at regular intervals on a base 1 as its main components.

[0080] Test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 include drive units 11, 21, 31 and 41 that operate according to control signals from control unit 50, and fixtures 12, 22, 32 and 42 for placing or holding test objects.

[0081] That is, each of the clamps 12, 22, 32 and 42 performs a folding or unfolding operation depending on the rotation direction of each of the drive units 11, 21, 31 and 41.

[0082] In addition, each of the drive units 11, 21, 31 and 41 in the test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 is mounted on one side of the base 1 so that each of the clamps 12, 22, 32 and 42 rotates at a constant speed.

[0083] In addition, the clamps 12, 22, 32 and 42 in the test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 are mounted side by side at regular intervals in the base 1, so that they can be folded or unfolded when they rotate about their respective rotation axes S connected to each of the drive units 11, 21, 31 and 41.

[0084] Here, each of the drive units 11, 21, 31 and 41 in the test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 can be configured to include an electric motor, such as an alternating current (AC) motor, which drives each of the clamps 12, 22, 32 and 42 in either a forward or reverse direction.

[0085] In addition, test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 can transmit rotational driving force according to the open / close signal of control unit 50 by directly connecting the rotational shaft (output shaft) of each of drive units 11, 21, 31 and 41 to the rotational shaft of each of fixtures 12, 22, 32 and 42.

[0086] Each of the drive units 11, 21, 31 and 41 in the test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 converts electrical energy into mechanical energy to generate rotational power, and can be easily started (driven) and operated by the signal current from the control unit 50, thereby making it easy to select a model suitable for the load and allowing the use of motors with low noise and vibration and no exhaust pollution.

[0087] For example, a servo motor can be used, which precisely rotates at a constant angle by converting a voltage input into a rotation angle based on the amplitude or signal of the applied voltage, for rapid stopping and reversing operations; or a stepper motor, which rotates at a constant angle whenever a pulse signal is sent from the control unit 50 to the driver, to control speed and direction.

[0088] Each of the clamps 12, 22, 32, and 42 in the test units 10, 20, 30, and 40 can be configured to rotate forward (in the +y direction) or backward (in the -y direction) by driving each of the drive units 11, 21, 31, and 41 at a predetermined angle (e.g., 90 degrees or 180 degrees) under the control of the control unit 50.

[0089] Furthermore, each of the fixtures 12, 22, 32, and 42 in the test units 10, 20, 30, and 40 can be configured to include a first fixture 12a, 22a, 32a, and 42a having a first plate-shaped surface and a second fixture 12b, 22b, 32b, and 42b having a second plate-shaped surface.

[0090] Additionally, each of the drive units 11, 21, 31, and 41 in the test units 10, 20, 30, and 40 can be configured to drive at least one of the first clamps 12a, 22a, 32a, and 42a and / or the second clamps 12b, 22b, 32b, and 42b to perform a folding or unfolding operation.

[0091] For example, the first clamps 12a, 22a, 32a and 42a can be configured within the base 1, and the second clamps 12b, 22b, 32b and 42b can be configured to allow 180-degree forward and reverse rotation about their respective rotation axes S, so as to perform a folding operation in the -y direction or an unfolding operation in the +y direction depending on the operation of each of the drive units 11, 21, 31 and 41.

[0092] Here, the folded state in the -y direction can refer to the state in which the first surfaces of the first clamps 12a, 22a, 32a and 42a in each clamp 12, 22, 32 and 42 are folded toward the second surfaces of the second clamps 12b, 22b, 32b and 42b that are opposite to each other; and the unfolded state in the +y direction can refer to the state in which the first surfaces of the first clamps 12a, 22a, 32a and 42a are unfolded such that the angle formed by the first surfaces of the first clamps 12a, 22a, 32a and 42a and the second surfaces of the second clamps 12b, 22b, 32b and 42b is greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees.

[0093] In addition, at least one suction hole may be formed on the first and second surfaces of each of the clamps 12, 22, 32 and 42.

[0094] In addition, the suction port can be connected to a device that generates negative pressure, such as a vacuum generator, to use pressure below atmospheric pressure to suction or fasten the test object.

[0095] The control unit 50 can control the voltage, current, frequency, etc. supplied to each of the drive units 11, 21, 31 and 41 to adjust the rotational speed, torque, direction, etc. of each of the clamps 12, 22, 32 and 42.

[0096] In addition, the control unit 50 can group K / 2 of the K test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 (where K=2n, n is a positive integer) into a first group and the remaining K / 2 into a second group, and control each of the drive units 11, 21, 31 and 41 so that the folding and unfolding operations of each fixture in the first group and each fixture in the second group can be performed alternately.

[0097] The control unit 50 can set the test unit arranged at the (2n-1)th position (where n is a positive integer) as the first group and set the test unit arranged at the (2n)th position as the second group.

[0098] That is, the control unit 50 can control the drive units 11 and 31 of all odd-numbered test units 10 and 30 and all even-numbered test units 20 and 40 in the first and second groups to rotate in the opposite direction relative to one side (e.g., the left side) of the folding direction (e.g., the -y direction).

[0099] For example, when each of the first and second groups consists of an even number of test units, the drive units 11 and 31 of the odd-numbered test units 10 and 30 and the drive units 21 and 41 of all the even-numbered test units 20 and 40 can be controlled to rotate in opposite directions.

[0100] In addition, the control unit 50 can control each drive unit of the (2n-1)th test unit 10 and 30 (where n is a positive integer) and each drive unit of the (2n)th test unit 20 and 40 in the first group of test units 10 and 20 and each test unit 30 and 40 in the second group to rotate in opposite directions.

[0101] That is, the control unit 50 can alternately perform folding and unfolding operations on each fixture of the (2n-1)th test units 10 and 30 and each fixture of the (2n)th test units 20 and 40.

[0102] For example, by simultaneously controlling each of the drive units 11, 21, 31, and 41, such that the folding and unfolding operations of each clamp 12 and 32 of the predetermined odd-numbered test units 10 and 30 and each clamp 22 and 42 of the even-numbered test units 20 and 40 are alternately performed based on the test units located at one end of the test units 10, 20, 30, and 40, the control unit 50 can set motion phases representing specific states, points in time, or positions to be staggered in the mechanical movements of the repeated folding and unfolding operations of the test units 10, 20, 30, and 40.

[0103] In addition, the control unit 50 can control each of the drive units 11, 21, 31 and 41 so that the folding or unfolding operation speed of each of the clamps 12, 22, 32 and 42 in the test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 is less than 1 second.

[0104] In addition, the control unit 50 receives predetermined position signals from each sensor unit 13, 23, 33 and 43 depending on the folding or unfolding operation of each of the clamps 12, 22, 32 and 42 in the test units 10, 20, 30 and 40, and compares the reception time difference of the received position signals to determine whether each of the clamps 12, 22, 32 and 42 in the test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 has completed the folding or unfolding operation.

[0105] That is, when all position signals are received within a similar or identical time period and time point within a predetermined range, the control unit 50 can control the determination that each of the clamps 12, 22, 32 and 42 in the test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 has completed its folding or unfolding operation and is executing the next command cycle.

[0106] Furthermore, when all position signals are received at dissimilar or different time periods and points within a predetermined range, the control unit 50 synchronizes the fixtures by delaying the folding or unfolding operations of the other fixtures until the position signal reaches the fixture with the slowest receiving speed, and then executes the next command cycle. This allows the forward and reverse rotation operations of each of the fixtures 12, 22, 32 and 42 to be synchronized accurately in real time.

[0107] Here, the control unit 50 can be configured to process computer program commands by performing basic arithmetic, logic, and input / output operations. Command information can be transmitted to the control unit 50 via memory or a communication module.

[0108] For example, control unit 50 can be configured to execute received commands according to program code stored in a storage device such as a memory, and control signals or commands from control unit 50 can be transmitted to each of drive units 11, 21, 31 and 41 in test units 10, 20, 30 and 40.

[0109] Sensor units 13, 23, 33 and 43 detect the position and rotation angle of the rotation axis of each of the drive units 11, 21, 31 and 41 in the test units 10, 20, 30 and 40, and acquire speed information to detect the folding or unfolding state of each clamp 12, 22, 32 and 42 in the test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 in real time, convert it into an electrical signal and then transmit it to the control unit 50.

[0110] Here, sensor units 13, 23, 33 and 43 can be configured as rotation angle detection sensors that detect the rotation angle or rotation position of the motor rotor relative to the stator.

[0111] For example, as sensor units 13, 23, 33, and 43, the following can be applied: Hall sensors that generate signals when detecting the magnetic field and position present on the rotor of each drive unit 11, 21, 31, and 41; encoders mounted on each drive unit 11, 21, 31, and 41 that detect the current rotation angle, position, and speed of the rotating shaft (motor shaft) and feed this information back to the AMP (which calculates the error between the control unit pulse signal and the feedback signal and controls the rotation of the driver so that the error is zero); or rotation angle measuring devices that can measure the angular displacement of the rotating shaft of each drive unit 11, 21, 31, and 41 based on the change in the magnetic field generated externally by the permanent magnets attached to the rotor of each drive unit 11, 21, 31, and 41.

[0112] In addition, synchronous sensors, rotary transformer sensors, and battery-free multi-turn ABZO sensors that detect the rotational speed and current position of the motor can be applied.

[0113] Meanwhile, the folding test apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention may include an input / output interface as a means for interfacing with input / output devices.

[0114] For example, input devices may include devices such as a keyboard or mouse, and output devices may include devices such as a display for showing communication sessions of an application.

[0115] As another example, an input / output interface can be a means of interfacing with devices such as touchscreens that integrate input and output functions.

[0116] At the same time, Figure 1 and Figure 2 In order to help understand the present invention, four test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 are used as examples for illustration, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and for example, five to ten test units may be provided.

[0117] The following describes a control method for a folding test apparatus configured as described above according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0118] refer to Figures 1 to 3 The control unit 50 outputs a control signal, causing the folding and unfolding operations of each clamp 12 and 32 of the odd-numbered test units 10 and 30 and each clamp 22 and 42 of the even-numbered test units 20 and 40 to be performed alternately, thereby simultaneously controlling the drive units 11, 21, 31 and 41.

[0119] That is, the control unit 50 can set the rotational speed and direction for the folding operation by controlling each of the drive units 11 and 31 of the predetermined odd number of test units 10 and 30 in the first and second groups of test units 10 and 30 located at one end, so that each of the clamps 12 and 32 connected to each of the drive units can perform the folding operation while rotating in the positive direction.

[0120] Furthermore, the control unit 50 can set the rotational speed and direction for the unfolding operation by controlling each of the drive units 21 and 41 of the predetermined even-numbered test units 20 and 40, which allows each of the clamps 22 and 42 connected to each of the drive units to perform the unfolding operation while rotating in the opposite direction.

[0121] This allows the phases of the periodic vibrations generated during the folding or unfolding operations of test units 10, 20, 30, and 40 to be staggered (or 180° out of phase), thereby damping the vibrations.

[0122] That is, by utilizing the phase crossing and destructive interference that occurs when the vibration signals of two of the test units 10, 20, 30, and 40 move in opposite directions, the overall vibration (amplitude) energy and frequency are dispersed and attenuated instead of concentrated, thereby effectively reducing noise and vibration.

[0123] In this process, each sensor unit 13, 23, 33 and 43 detects the position and rotation angle of the axis of each drive unit 11, 21, 31 and 41 in the test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 to detect the folding or unfolding state of each of the clamps 12, 22, 32 and 42 in the test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 in real time, converts it into an electrical signal, and then transmits it to the control unit 50.

[0124] Subsequently, the control unit 50 receives predetermined position signals from each sensor unit 13, 23, 33 and 43 according to the folding or unfolding operation of each clamp 12, 22, 32 and 42 in the test units 10, 20, 30 and 40, and compares the reception time difference of the received position signals to determine whether the folding or unfolding operation of each clamp 12, 22, 32 and 42 in the test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 has been completed.

[0125] When all position signals are received at similar or identical periods and time points within a certain range, the control unit 50 determines that all clamps 12, 22, 32 and 42 in the test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 have completed the folding or unfolding operation and executes the next command cycle.

[0126] When all position signals are received at similar or different cycles and time points within a certain range, the control unit 50 determines that all clamps 12, 22, 32 and 42 in the test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 have not yet completed the folding or unfolding operation, and therefore waits for a certain period of time without executing the next command cycle.

[0127] That is, when all position signals are received at similar or different periods and time points within a certain range, the control unit 50 synchronizes the clamps by delaying the folding or unfolding operation of the other clamps until the position signal reaches the clamp with the slowest receiving speed among clamps 12, 22, 32 and 42, and then executes the next command cycle. This makes it possible to synchronize the forward and reverse rotation operations of each clamp 12, 22, 32 and 42 in real time and accurately.

[0128] Other embodiments for implementing the present invention

[0129] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 According to another embodiment of the present invention, the folding test device includes a plurality of test units 10, 20, 30 and 40, a control unit 50, and sensor units 13, 23, 33 and 43, which are mounted in parallel at regular intervals on a base 1.

[0130] The control unit 50 controls the drive units of all test units 10 and 20 in the first group and all test units 30 and 40 in the second group to rotate in opposite directions, thereby allowing the folding and unfolding operations of each of the clamps 12 and 22 in the first group and each of the clamps 32 and 42 in the second group to be performed alternately.

[0131] The control unit 50 groups at least two test units (each in the first group and the second group) into a single group and controls them such that the drive units of all test units in the first group and the drive units of all test units in the second group can rotate in opposite directions, thereby allowing the folding and unfolding operations of each clamp 12 and 22 in the first group and each clamp 32 and 42 in the second group to be performed alternately.

[0132] For example, control unit 50 can group at least two test units among adjacent test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 into a single object, and set them into multiple groups A and B based on one side (e.g., the left side) of the folding direction (e.g., the -y direction) or the center of the device, and control them such that each drive unit 11 and 21 of each odd group A and each drive unit 31 and 41 of each even group B in group (A, B) can rotate in opposite directions.

[0133] That is, the control unit 50 can group at least two test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 into a single group based on the test unit located at one end of the test units 10, 20, 30 and 40, and output a control signal so that the folding and unfolding operations of each of the clamps 12 and 22 of the odd group A and each of the clamps 32 and 42 of the even group B can be performed alternately, thereby simultaneously controlling each of the drive units 11, 21, 31 and 41.

[0134] As another example, the control unit 50 can arrange multiple test units belonging to at least one of the first group or the second group in a sequential manner.

[0135] For example, the control unit 50 can group two test units 10 and 40 from test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 into one group (the first group) and group the other two test units 20 and 30 into another group (the second group), and output control signals so that the folding and unfolding operations of each of the clamps 12 and 42 in the first group and each of the clamps 22 and 32 in the second group can be performed alternately, thereby simultaneously controlling each of the drive units 11, 21, 31 and 41.

[0136] Here, when components related to the folding test apparatus according to another embodiment of the invention have the same or similar operational effects as those in the above embodiments, the same reference numerals are used, and their repetitive and specific descriptions are omitted.

[0137] At the same time, Figure 4 and Figure 5 In order to help understand the present invention, four test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 are used as examples for illustration, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and for example, five to ten test units may be provided.

[0138] The following describes a control method for a folding test apparatus configured as described above according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0139] refer to Figures 4 to 6 The control unit 50 outputs a control signal, causing the folding and unfolding operations of each of the clamps 12 and 22 in the first group and each of the clamps 32 and 42 in the second group to be performed alternately, thereby simultaneously controlling each of the drive units 11, 21, 31 and 41.

[0140] For example, control unit 50 groups at least two test units into a single object based on the test unit located at one end of test units 10, 20, 30 and 40, and sets them into multiple groups A and B, and controls each of the drive units 11 and 21 in each odd group (A) of the groups (A, B) to set the rotation speed and direction, thereby allowing each of the clamps 12 and 22 connected to each drive unit to perform a folding operation while rotating in the positive direction.

[0141] In addition, the control unit 50 controls each of the drive units 31 and 41 in each even array B to set the rotation speed and direction, thereby allowing each of the clamps 32 and 42 connected to each drive unit to perform an unfolding operation while rotating in opposite directions.

[0142] This allows the phases of the periodic vibrations generated during the folding or unfolding operations of test units 10, 20, 30, and 40 to be staggered (or 180° out of phase with each other), thereby damping the vibrations.

[0143] That is, by utilizing the phase crossing and destructive interference that occurs when two vibration signals from test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 move in opposite directions, the overall vibration (amplitude) energy, as well as the vibration frequency and amplitude, are dispersed and attenuated instead of concentrated, thereby effectively reducing noise and vibration.

[0144] In this process, each of the sensor units 13, 23, 33 and 43 detects the position and rotation angle of the rotation axis of each of the drive units 11, 21, 31 and 41 in the test units 10, 20, 30 and 40, so as to detect the folding or unfolding state of each of the clamps 12, 22, 32 and 42 in the test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 in real time, convert it into an electrical signal and then transmit it to the control unit 50.

[0145] Subsequently, the control unit 50 receives a predetermined position signal from each sensor unit 13, 23, 33 and 43 corresponding to the folding or unfolding operation of each of the clamps 12, 22, 32 and 42 in the test units 10, 20, 30 and 40, and compares the reception time difference of the received position signals to determine whether the folding or unfolding operation of each of the clamps 12, 22, 32 and 42 in the test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 has been completed.

[0146] When all position signals are received within a predetermined range at similar or identical time periods and points, the control unit 50 determines that each of the clamps 12, 22, 32 and 42 in the test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 has completed the folding or unfolding operation, and then executes the next command cycle.

[0147] When all position signals are received at dissimilar or different time periods and points within a predetermined range, the control unit 50 determines that each of the clamps 12, 22, 32 and 42 of all test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 has not yet completed the folding or unfolding operation, and then waits for a predetermined time period without executing the next command cycle.

[0148] Specifically, when all position signals are received at dissimilar or different periods and time points within a certain range, until the position signal reaches the fixture with the slowest receiving speed among fixtures 12, 22, 32 and 42, the control unit 50 synchronizes the fixtures by delaying the folding or unfolding operation of the other fixtures, and then executes the next command cycle, thereby synchronizing the forward and reverse rotation operations of each of fixtures 12, 22, 32 and 42 in real time and accurately.

[0149] Therefore, the movement and vibration deviations between clamps 12, 22, 32 and 42 that occur during the folding test can be minimized, and resonance phenomena can be minimized.

[0150] Vibration test evaluation

[0151] Meanwhile, vibration testing of the folding test apparatus according to the present invention is evaluated in embodiments and comparative examples 1 and 2. In embodiments and comparative examples 1 and 2, when all test units 10, 20, 30 and 40 are operated simultaneously, five measurements are taken for vibration occurring at the center of the device for each of the test units to calculate the average value.

[0152] In the implementation scheme, each of the drive units 11, 21, 31, and 41 is simultaneously controlled such that the folding and unfolding operations of each of the clamps 12 and 32 of the (2n-1)th (where n is a positive integer) test units 10 and 30 in the first and second groups, and each of the clamps 22 and 42 of the (2n)th test units 20 and 40, are performed alternately, wherein the folding or unfolding operation speed is set to less than 1 second. The results are presented in the following Table 1 and as waveforms representing the amplitude change over time. Figure 7 middle.

[0153] In Comparative Example 1, each of the drive units 11, 21, 31, and 41 was simultaneously controlled, causing all test units 10, 20, 30, and 40 to fold or unfold simultaneously in the same direction, with the folding or unfolding speed set to a value greater than 1 second. The results are presented as waveforms representing amplitude changes over time in Table 1 below. Figure 8 middle.

[0154] In Comparative Example 2, each of the driving units 11, 21, 31, and 41 was driven simultaneously, causing all test units 10, 20, 30, and 40 to fold or unfold simultaneously in the same direction, with the folding or unfolding speed set to less than 1 second. The results are presented as waveforms representing amplitude changes over time in Table 1 below. Figure 9 middle.

[0155] Here, peak-to-peak value represents the difference between the highest and lowest points (amplitude), RMS (root mean square) represents the average vibration energy (signal strength), and the number of vibrations per second is represented by converting the number of vibrations exceeding a threshold into the frequency per second (vibration frequency).

[0156] Table 1

[0157]

[0158] As shown in Table 1 and Figures 7 to 9 As shown, under high-speed folding test conditions, peak-to-peak value was reduced by up to 59.6%, RMS by up to 74.9%, and vibration frequency was reduced by up to 81%.

[0159] Furthermore, this invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and figures, and can be modified and applied in various ways not illustrated herein without departing from the technical spirit of the invention. Moreover, those skilled in the art will understand that this invention can be widely applied by replacing each component and modifying it to an equivalent embodiment. Therefore, any modification or application of the technical features of this invention should be understood as falling within the spirit and scope of this invention.

Claims

1. A folding testing device having multiple testing units, wherein the multiple testing units are mounted with clamps that fold or unfold depending on the rotation direction of a drive unit to hold the test object, characterized in that, The device includes: The control unit groups K / 2 of the K test units (where K = 2n, n is a positive integer) into a first group and the remaining K / 2 into a second group, and controls the drive unit to alternately perform folding and unfolding operations for each fixture in the first group and each fixture in the second group.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The test units of the first group are arranged at position (2n-1) (where n is a positive integer), and the test units of the second group are arranged at position (2n).

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of test units belonging to at least one of the first group or the second group are arranged in series.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit controls the rotation of each drive unit in the first and second groups of test units at position (2n-1) (where n is a positive integer) and each drive unit in the first and second groups of test units at position (2n) to rotate in opposite directions to allow the folding and unfolding operations of each clamp in the test unit at position (2n-1) and each clamp in the test unit at position (2n) to alternate.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit controls the rotation of each drive unit of all test units in the first group and each drive unit of all test units in the second group in opposite directions to allow the folding and unfolding operations of each fixture in the first group and each fixture in the second group to be performed alternately.

6. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, Further includes: The sensor unit detects the rotation axis position and rotation angle of each drive unit in the test unit to detect the folding or unfolding state of each fixture in the test unit in real time. The control unit receives predetermined position signals from the sensor unit depending on the folding or unfolding operation of each fixture in the test unit, compares the reception time difference of the received position signals, and executes the next command cycle when all the position signals are received within similar or identical time periods and points within a predetermined range, and executes the next command cycle after synchronizing the fixtures by delaying the folding or unfolding operations of the other fixtures when all the position signals are received within dissimilar or different time periods and points within the predetermined range.

7. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The control unit controls the rotational speed of each drive unit so that the speed of the folding or unfolding operation of each fixture in the test unit is less than 1 second.

8. A control method for a folding testing device having multiple testing units, wherein the multiple testing units are equipped with clamps that fold or unfold depending on the rotation direction of a drive unit to hold the test object, characterized in that... The method includes: Group K / 2 of the K test units (where K = 2n, n is a positive integer) into the first group, and group the remaining K / 2 into the second group; and The drive unit is controlled to alternately perform folding and unfolding operations for each clamp in the first group and each clamp in the second group.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The control of the drive unit further includes: Control is performed such that each drive unit in the first and second groups of test units at position (2n-1) (where n is a positive integer) and each drive unit in the first and second groups of test units at position (2n) rotate in opposite directions to each other, so as to allow the folding operation and the unfolding operation of each fixture in the test unit at position (2n-1) and each fixture in the test unit at position (2n) to be performed alternately.

10. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The control of the drive unit further includes: Control is performed such that each drive unit of all test units in the first group and each drive unit of all test units in the second group rotates in opposite directions to each other, so as to allow the folding operation and the unfolding operation of each clamp in the first group and each clamp in the second group to be performed alternately.

11. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that, Further includes: The position and angle of the rotation axis of each drive unit in the test unit are detected to detect the folding or unfolding state of each fixture in the test unit in real time. Receive a predetermined position signal depending on the folding or unfolding operation of each fixture in the test unit, and compare the reception time difference of the received position signals; as well as When all the position signals are received within similar or identical time periods and points within a predetermined range, it is determined that the folding operation or the unfolding operation is performed by each fixture of the test unit, and the next command cycle is executed.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, Further includes: When all the position signals are received at dissimilar or different time periods and points within the predetermined range, the next command cycle is executed after the fixtures are synchronized by delaying the folding or unfolding operations of the other fixtures, until the position signals reach the fixture with the slowest receiving speed.

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