Foldable supporting plate, screen module and electronic device
By employing a multi-layer fiber support structure in the screen module of foldable electronic devices, the problem of decreased thermal conductivity in the bending area is solved, thereby improving heat dissipation performance, extending service life, and enhancing user experience.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- HUAWEI TECH CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-04-29
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-19
Smart Images
Figure CN224383837U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of electronic device technology, specifically to a foldable support plate, a screen module, and an electronic device. Background Technology
[0002] Users have an increasing demand for electronic devices that are large in size and easy to carry. As a result, electronic devices with flexible displays (i.e., foldable electronic devices) have attracted widespread attention. Flexible displays can be unfolded when in use to provide a larger display area; they can be folded and closed when not in use to reduce the space occupied by the electronic device.
[0003] Currently, perforations are typically made in the bending area of the foldable support plate of the screen module to reduce the stiffness of the bending area and improve its bending performance. However, perforations in the bending area reduce thermal conductivity, causing the heat generated by the screen module to be unable to be conducted and dissipated in a timely manner, resulting in excessively high local temperatures. Utility Model Content
[0004] The embodiments of this application provide a foldable support plate, a screen module, and an electronic device, which can improve the thermal conductivity of the foldable support plate, thereby preventing the display screen connected to the foldable support plate from experiencing localized high temperatures that could affect the user experience.
[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides a foldable support plate, including a first support layer and a second support layer stacked together. The first support layer includes a plurality of first fibers, each of which extends along a first direction, which is the extension direction of the bending axis of the foldable support plate.
[0006] The second support layer has a first region, a second region, and a first bending region. The first region, the first bending region, and the second region are connected sequentially along the second direction. The second support layer includes a plurality of second fibers. At least some of the second fibers extend from the first region to the first bending region, and at least some of the second fibers extend from the first bending region to the second region. The extension direction of the second fibers in the first bending region is different from the first direction and the second direction.
[0007] In this embodiment, when the foldable support plate is folded, the first fiber body within the first support layer is aligned with the folding axis. Therefore, the first fiber body primarily bears tensile or compressive stress, rather than bending stress. The bending stress generated in the first fiber body during folding is relatively small, which is beneficial for improving the folding performance of the foldable support plate. The first fiber body will not break due to repeated folding, thereby maintaining the structural stability and flatness of the first support layer, enabling the first support layer to stably support the display screen.
[0008] Because the first fiber in the first support layer does not extend in the second direction, it cannot transfer heat along the first direction. The second fiber in the second support layer can transfer heat between the first region and the first bending region, and also between the second region and the first bending region. The second fiber can prevent localized high temperatures in the first region, the second region, and the first bending region. The foldable support plate can quickly disperse heat to a larger area, avoiding localized overheating (such as at the screen edge or in the backlight module area), and preventing image defects such as uneven brightness and color shift caused by uneven temperature. Furthermore, localized overheating can accelerate the aging of internal materials (such as polarizers and adhesives) of the screen module. Improving the heat dissipation performance of the foldable support plate can extend the lifespan of the screen module by reducing peak temperature. Localized high temperatures may also reduce the capacitive response speed of the touch panel of the screen module. Improving the heat dissipation design of the foldable support plate can also maintain stable touch performance and reduce the occurrence of accidental touches or malfunctions.
[0009] When the fiber extension direction is perpendicular to the bending axis, the bending stress increases significantly, and the fiber's bending recovery ability is weak, making it difficult for the foldable support plate to return to its original shape after folding.
[0010] In this application, when the first direction is perpendicular to the second direction, the extension direction of the second fiber within the second support layer differs from both the first and second directions, forming acute angles with both the straight lines containing the first and second directions. In this case, the internal stress generated by the second fiber during folding can be more effectively transmitted along its extension direction. This stress can manifest as tensile or compressive stress, or as bending stress, reducing the bending stress on the second fiber and minimizing stress damage during folding, thus extending the service life of the foldable support plate.
[0011] Furthermore, since the second fiber has low bending stress during folding, the first bending area of the second support layer has low resistance during bending and is easier to bend. Therefore, there is no need to punch holes or thin the second support layer to improve the flexibility of the first bending area. Thus, the thermal resistance will not increase due to the punching or thinning process, ensuring the uniform heat performance of the second support layer.
[0012] In one possible implementation, the foldable support plate further includes a third support layer connected to the side of the second support layer away from the first support layer. The third support layer includes a plurality of third fibers, the extension direction of which is different from the first and second directions, and the extension direction of the third fibers is different from the extension direction of the second fibers located in the first bending region.
[0013] In this embodiment, the fiber material typically exhibits anisotropy, meaning its physical and mechanical properties differ in different directions. During bending, stress distribution occurs within the fiber material. When the fiber is not perpendicular to the bending direction, the stress distribution on the fiber is uneven, with some areas experiencing higher stress and others lower stress. This uneven stress distribution causes the fiber to deform in areas of higher stress, resulting in displacement.
[0014] Bending moment is generated during bending, which causes the fiber to bend and deform. When the fiber is not perpendicular to the bending direction, the effect of the bending moment on the fiber is different, making the fiber more likely to deviate along the direction of the bending moment during bending, and tending to coincide with the bending axis.
[0015] When the second fiber is not perpendicular to the bending direction, the stiffness and strength of the second fiber are different in different directions, which makes it easier for the second fiber to deform and shift along the direction with relatively low strength and stiffness during bending.
[0016] When another fiber with a different extension direction is superimposed, the stress is dispersed between the second and third fiber bodies when external forces are applied to the composite structure of the second and third support layers. Because the two fibers extend in different directions, they can withstand stress in different directions, thus avoiding excessive stress concentration on a single fiber. In this way, the stress borne by each fiber (the second or third fiber body) is relatively reduced, decreasing the possibility of fiber (second and third fiber bodies) shifting.
[0017] The interweaving of fibers extending in different directions (the second and third fiber bodies) increases the contact area and interaction points between them. This allows the fibers (the second or third fiber body) to better support and restrain each other during bending, reducing the likelihood of displacement due to imbalance of interaction forces. Two fibers extending in different directions can provide support from different directions, making the entire fiber structure more stable during bending. Even if a fiber in one direction tends to shift under external force, a fiber in the other direction can provide a reverse restraining force to prevent it from shifting.
[0018] In summary, superimposing a third fiber with a different extension direction on the second support layer where the second fiber is located can effectively share the external force, reduce the offset of the second fiber during the bending process, and suppress its tendency to coincide with the bending axis.
[0019] In one possible implementation, the third support layer is provided with a third region, a fourth region, and a second bending region. Along the second direction, the third region, the second bending region, and the fourth region are arranged sequentially. At least a portion of the third fiber extends from the third region to the second bending region, and at least a portion of the third fiber extends from the second bending region to the fourth region.
[0020] The extension direction of the third fiber in the second bending region is symmetrical about the bending axis of the foldable support plate to the extension direction of the second fiber in the first bending region.
[0021] In this embodiment, the second and third fibers can provide support from different but symmetrical directions, making the composite fiber layer of the entire second and third support layers more stable during bending. Even if a fiber in one direction tends to shift under external force, a fiber in the other symmetrical direction can provide a reverse restraining force to prevent it from shifting, thereby maintaining the overall stability of the fiber structure.
[0022] Among these features, stacking symmetrical fibers can optimize the thermal conductivity of the fiber structure. Two fibers extending in symmetrical directions can form a more uniform thermal network, improving heat transfer efficiency and enhancing the heat dissipation performance of the screen module. This avoids localized overheating of the screen module, ensuring a uniform temperature distribution across the entire module, allowing electronic components to operate at suitable temperatures, and reducing the risk of performance degradation due to high temperatures.
[0023] In one possible implementation, the second fiber body includes a first segment, a second segment, and a first bent segment, which are connected sequentially. The first segment is located in a first region, the first bent segment is located in a first bent region, and the second segment is located in a second region.
[0024] The first segment and the second segment extend along the second direction. One end of the first bending segment is connected to the first segment, and the other end is connected to the second segment. The first bending segment is set at an angle to the straight line containing the second direction.
[0025] In this embodiment, the thermal conductivity along the first and second segments of the second fiber is generally higher than that perpendicular to the first and second segments of the second fiber. This is because the fiber material exhibits a fibrous structure during preparation, and when the fiber direction is aligned with the heat conduction direction, the heat conduction path is smoother, resulting in better thermal conductivity.
[0026] The first and second segments extend in the same direction as heat conduction, allowing heat to be transferred more directly along their axial direction, thus reducing thermal resistance. This structure enables heat to be rapidly conducted from high-temperature areas to low-temperature areas, achieving efficient heat dissipation.
[0027] In addition, the first and second segments extend in a high modulus (e.g., carbon fiber modulus can reach 200-400 GPa), thus effectively resisting deformation. When the display area corresponding to the first region and the display area corresponding to the second region of the screen module are subjected to external force, the first and second segments of the second fiber can effectively resist the external load, ensuring that the screen module does not bend or collapse at the corresponding positions.
[0028] In one possible implementation, the angle α1 between the first bending segment and the straight line containing the second direction satisfies: 0°<α1≤30°.
[0029] In this embodiment, when fibers are generally arranged in a certain direction, the stiffness of that direction is significantly higher than that of the vertical direction. When the angle between the fibers and the bending axis decreases, the overall bending resistance of the material decreases, making the foldable support plate easier to bend. At the same time, it can also prevent the fibers from breaking due to excessive tensile / compressive stress when the foldable support plate is bent.
[0030] In this embodiment, setting the angle between the first bending segment and the bending axis to less than 30° ensures that the first bending segment is easier to bend, eliminating the need to reduce the rigidity of the first bending area of the second support layer by drilling or thinning. The easy bending of the area corresponding to the first bending segment of the foldable support plate makes electronic devices using it foldable and unfold more smoothly, reducing user effort and improving ease of use.
[0031] In one possible implementation, the second fiber is a high thermal conductivity fiber with a thermal conductivity greater than 100 W / (m·K).
[0032] In this embodiment, the second fiber has a high thermal conductivity, thereby improving the overall thermal conductivity of the foldable support plate. The foldable support plate can quickly conduct the heat generated by the display screen connected to it (such as OLED heat generation and chip heat dissipation) to a larger area. This avoids excessively high temperatures in localized areas of the display screen (such as the chip's location) and reduces the risk of screen burn-in.
[0033] In one possible implementation, the second fiber further includes a first transition segment and a second transition segment, wherein the first segment is smoothly connected to the first bending segment via the first transition segment, and the second segment is smoothly connected to the first bending segment via the second transition segment.
[0034] In this embodiment, the first transition section and the second transition section make the extension of the second fiber body smoother, avoiding abrupt changes at the turning points of the second fiber body. This prevents stress concentration in the second fiber body. The smoothly distributed second fiber body can uniformly transmit stress, avoiding local overload, so that the stress is more balanced throughout the foldable support plate when it bends, reducing the risk of breakage.
[0035] In one possible implementation, the foldable support plate further includes a fourth support layer located on the side of the second support layer opposite to the first support layer, and the fourth support layer has a plurality of fourth fibers, each of which extends along a first direction.
[0036] In this embodiment, when the foldable support plate is folded, the fourth fiber body within the fourth support layer is aligned with the folding axis. Therefore, the fourth fiber body primarily bears tensile or compressive stress, rather than bending stress. The lower bending stress generated in the fourth fiber body during folding improves the folding performance of the foldable support plate. The fourth fiber body will not break due to repeated folding, thus maintaining the structural stability and flatness of the fourth support layer, enabling it to stably support the display screen.
[0037] In one possible implementation, the second bending region of the second support layer does not have a perforated structure.
[0038] In one possible implementation, the material of the first fiber body includes T700 carbon fiber.
[0039] In one possible implementation, the material of the second fiber includes pitch-based carbon fiber.
[0040] In one possible implementation, the material of the first fiber body includes T700 carbon fiber, the material of the second fiber body includes pitch-based carbon fiber, and the material of the fourth fiber body includes T700 carbon fiber.
[0041] In one possible implementation, the second fiber body is a unidirectional continuous fiber.
[0042] Secondly, this application also provides a screen module, including a display screen and a foldable support plate as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein the display screen and the foldable support plate are stacked together.
[0043] Thirdly, this application also provides an electronic device, including a first housing, a second housing, a hinge, and a screen module as described above. The first housing and the second housing are connected by the hinge. The first housing, the hinge, and the second housing are arranged sequentially along a second direction. The screen module is fixedly connected to the first housing and the second housing. The first bending area of the second support layer is stacked with the hinge in the thickness direction of the electronic device. Attached Figure Description
[0044] To more clearly illustrate the technical solution of this application, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.
[0045] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application;
[0046] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The diagram shown is an exploded view of the screen module.
[0047] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the first embodiment of the foldable support plate shown;
[0048] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An exploded view of the first embodiment of the foldable support plate shown;
[0049] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 An exploded view of the second embodiment of the foldable support plate shown;
[0050] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The diagram shows the structure of the second support layer.
[0051] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 The diagram shows the structure of the third support layer;
[0052] Figure 8 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the third embodiment of the second support layer of the foldable support plate shown;
[0053] Figure 9 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of the third support layer of the foldable support plate in the fourth embodiment;
[0054] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for preparing the second support layer of a foldable support plate according to an embodiment of this application.
[0055] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the initial second support layer in step S100 of the method for preparing the second support layer shown;
[0056] Figure 12 yes Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the operation angle in step S200 of the method for preparing the second support layer shown;
[0057] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 A schematic diagram from another angle of the operation in step S200 of the method for preparing the second support layer shown;
[0058] Figure 14 yes Figure 10The diagram shows the operation in step S300 of the method for preparing the second support layer. Detailed Implementation
[0059] The specific embodiments of this application will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Although exemplary embodiments of this application are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that this application may be implemented in other ways different from those described herein, and therefore, this application is not limited to these embodiments.
[0060] For ease of understanding, the terminology used in the embodiments of this application will be explained first.
[0061] Multiple: refers to two or more.
[0062] Connection: should be interpreted broadly. For example, the connection between A and B can be a direct connection between A and B, or an indirect connection between A and B through an intermediary.
[0063] The specific embodiments of this application will now be clearly described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
[0064] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device 1000 provided in an embodiment of this application, wherein the electronic device 1000 is in an unfolded state. The electronic device 1000 includes a first housing 200, a second housing 300, a hinge 400, and a screen module 100. The first housing 200 and the second housing 300 are connected by the hinge 400. The first housing 200, the second housing 300, and the hinge 400 together support the screen module 100.
[0065] Figure 1 The X-direction shown represents the width direction of the electronic device 1000. For ease of description, the X-direction is defined as the first direction, which is also the bending axis direction of the electronic device 1000. Figure 1 The Y-direction shown in the figure represents the length direction of the electronic device 1000. For ease of description, the Y-direction is defined as the second direction. The Z-direction shown in the figure represents the thickness direction of the electronic device 1000. The length and thickness directions of the electronic device 1000 change when it is unfolded or folded. It should be explained that, since the electronic device 1000 can be folded and unfolded, for ease of description, it is defined that when the electronic device 1000 is unfolded, the relative positions of the X, Y, and Z directions with the first housing 200 of the electronic device 1000 remain unchanged. That is, during the unfolding or folding process of the electronic device 1000, it can be considered that other components of the electronic device 1000 move relative to the first housing 200.
[0066] It should be noted that, Figure 1The purpose of this illustration is solely to depict the connection relationship between the first housing 200, the second housing 300, the hinge 400, and the screen module 100, and is not to specifically limit the connection positions, specific structures, or quantities of each device. Furthermore, the structures illustrated in this application's embodiments do not constitute a specific limitation on the electronic device 1000. In other embodiments of this application, the electronic device 1000 may include more or fewer components than shown in the figures, or combine certain components, or split certain components, or have different component arrangements.
[0067] The first housing 200 can be folded relative to the second housing 300 via the hinge 400, thereby realizing the folding function of the electronic device 1000. The first housing 200 and the second housing 300 are respectively connected to the two ends of the screen module 100 along its length. When the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 are folded via the hinge 400, the area of the screen module 100 corresponding to the hinge 400 can undergo bending deformation.
[0068] In this embodiment, the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 can support the screen module 100, ensuring that the electronic device 1000 remains stable and robust during folding and unfolding.
[0069] Secondly, when the electronic device 1000 is in a folded state, the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 can fix the screen module 100, preventing the screen module 100 from becoming loose or damaged. When the electronic device 1000 is in an unfolded state, the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 ensure that the screen module 100 can unfold smoothly, providing a good visual experience.
[0070] The hinge 400 can be a telescopic structure. When the electronic device 1000 is in the folded state, the hinge 400 can be in the retracted state, at which time the hinge 400 can be located on the outside of the bent portion of the screen module 100. At this time, the hinge 400 can provide structural support for the screen module 100 and protect the bent portion of the screen module 100. When the electronic device 1000 is in the extended state, the width of the hinge 400 in the X direction can be increased, thereby matching the unfolded width of the bent portion of the screen module 100.
[0071] The screen module 100 provided in this application embodiment can be applied to foldable devices such as foldable mobile phones, foldable tablets, laptops, and foldable e-readers. When the electronic device 1000 is folded, the screen module 100 is also folded, thereby reducing the screen area of the electronic device 1000 and improving portability. When the electronic device 1000 is unfolded, the screen module 100 is also unfolded, thereby providing a larger display area and improving user convenience.
[0072] In some other possible embodiments, the electronic device 1000 can also be a three-fold device. The mid-frame of the electronic device 1000 may further include a first housing, a second housing, a third housing, a first hinge, and a second hinge. The first housing and the second housing are connected by the first hinge. The side of the second housing opposite to the first housing is connected to the third housing by the second hinge. The first housing, the second housing, and the third housing can be stacked to form a three-layer structure. Alternatively, the first housing, the second housing, and the third housing can be flattened to form a larger viewing screen.
[0073] In other embodiments, the electronic device 1000 may also be a four-fold device, etc. This application does not limit the number of layers in the folded electronic device. The following description uses an electronic device 1000 having one folding area, forming two layers after folding, as an example; however, it should be understood that the number of layers in the electronic device 1000 is not limited to this.
[0074] Please see Figure 2 , Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows an exploded view of the screen module 100. The screen module 100 includes a foldable support plate 10 and a display screen 20. The foldable support plate 10 is connected to the non-display side of the display screen 20. The foldable support plate 10 can provide certain support for the display screen 20 and control the shape of the screen module 100 during folding or unfolding.
[0075] In this embodiment, the foldable support plate 10 can provide a certain structural support for the display screen 20, and the bending or flattening of the foldable support plate 10 can cause the display screen 20 to bend or flatten, so as to achieve the expected bending or unfolding shape.
[0076] The display screen 20 includes a first portion 21, a second portion 22, and a second bent portion 23. The second bent portion 23 is located between the first portion 21 and the second portion 22, and the second bent portion 23 can be bent, causing the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 to fold relative to each other. The display surfaces of the first portion 21, the second portion 22, and the second bent portion 23 together constitute the screen.
[0077] Display screen 20 employs a flexible screen, such as an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) screen, an active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) screen, a mini organic light-emitting diode (MLED) screen, a micro organic light-emitting diode (MOLED) screen, or a quantum dot light-emitting diode (QLED) screen. The first part 21 and the second part 22 are also bendable when not fixed.
[0078] In the first possible embodiment, please continue reading Figure 2 The foldable support plate 10 includes a first fixing part 10a, a first bending part 10b, and a second fixing part 10c arranged sequentially. The first fixing part 10a, the first bending part 10b, and the second fixing part 10c are arranged sequentially along the unfolded length direction of the foldable support plate 10. The unfolded length direction of the foldable support plate 10 is the same as the unfolded length direction of the electronic device 1000.
[0079] Please refer to the following: Figure 3 and Figure 4 , Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first embodiment of the foldable support plate 10 shown. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The diagram shows an exploded view of a first embodiment of the foldable support plate 10. The foldable support plate 10 may include a first support layer 11, a second support layer 12, and a fourth support layer 14 stacked together. The first support layer 11, the second support layer 12, and the fourth support layer 14 are stacked sequentially.
[0080] The first support layer 11 includes a plurality of first fibers 111 and a first matrix 112. The plurality of first fibers 111 are embedded within the first matrix 112. The plurality of first fibers 111 extend along the X-direction. The material of the first fibers 111 may include T700 carbon fiber. The first fibers 111 may be unidirectional continuous fibers. A unidirectional continuous fiber is a fiber-reinforced material in a composite material that is continuously arranged in a single direction. It consists of long, continuous fibers (such as carbon fiber, glass fiber, or aramid fiber), all of which are arranged parallel to each other in the same direction and bonded to a matrix material (such as resin, metal, or ceramic) to form a composite material.
[0081] In this embodiment, after the first fiber 111 is combined with the first matrix 112, the first matrix 112 transmits the load to the first fiber 111, and the first fiber 111 bears the main stress.
[0082] The second support layer 12 includes a second fiber body 121 and a second matrix 122. Multiple second fibers 121 are embedded within the second matrix 122. The extension directions of the multiple second fibers 121 are inclined relative to the X and Y directions. The angle α1 between the line containing the extension direction of the second fiber 121 and the line containing the X direction can range from 0° to 30° (inclusive of the endpoint value of 30°). That is, the angle between the extension direction of the second fiber 121 and the X direction can range from 0° to 30° (inclusive of the endpoint value of 30°, excluding the endpoint value of 0°). The angle between the extension direction of the second fiber 121 and the opposite direction of the X direction can range from 150° to 180° (inclusive of the endpoint value of 150°, excluding the endpoint value of 180°). The thermal conductivity of the second fiber 121 is greater than 100 W / (m·K). For example, the material of the second fiber 121 can be high thermal conductivity carbon fiber. The material of the second fiber 121 can include pitch-based carbon fiber. The second fiber 121 is a unidirectional continuous fiber.
[0083] In this embodiment, the second fiber 121 has a high thermal conductivity, thereby improving the overall thermal conductivity of the foldable support plate 10. The foldable support plate 10 can quickly conduct the heat generated by the display screen 20 connected to it (such as OLED heat generation and chip heat dissipation) to a larger area. This avoids excessively high temperatures in local areas of the display screen 20 (such as the corresponding chip location), reducing the risk of screen burn-in.
[0084] The second support layer 12 is provided with a first region 1201, a second region 1202 and a first bending region 1203, and the first region 1201, the first bending region 1203 and the second region 1202 are arranged sequentially along the Y direction.
[0085] A portion of the second fiber 121 extends from the first region 1201 to the first bending region 1203. A portion of the second fiber 121 extends from the first bending region 1203 to the second region 1202. A portion of the second fiber 121 extends from the first region 1201, through the first bending region 1203, to the second region 1202.
[0086] The fourth support layer 14 includes a plurality of fourth fibers 141 and a fourth matrix 142. The plurality of fourth fibers 141 are embedded within the fourth matrix 142. The plurality of fourth fibers 141 extend along the X-direction. The structure of the fourth support layer 14 can be the same as that of the first support layer 11. The material of the fourth fibers 141 may include T700 carbon fiber. The fourth fibers 141 are unidirectional continuous fibers.
[0087] In this embodiment, after the fourth fiber 141 and the fourth matrix 142 are combined, the fourth matrix 142 transfers the load to the fourth fiber 141, and the fourth fiber 141 bears the main stress.
[0088] A portion of the first support layer 11, a first region 1201 of the second support layer 12, and a portion of the fourth support layer 14 overlap to form a first fixing portion 10a of the foldable support plate 10. A middle portion of the first support layer 11, a first bending region 1203 of the second support layer 12, and a portion of the fourth support layer 14 overlap to form a first bending portion 10b of the foldable support plate 10. Additionally, a portion of the first support layer 11, a second region 1202 of the second support layer 12, and a portion of the fourth support layer 14 overlap to form a second fixing portion 10c of the foldable support plate 10.
[0089] The side of the first support layer 11 facing away from the second support layer 12 can be connected to the non-display surface of the display screen 20. The first fixing part 10a of the foldable support plate 10 is connected to the first part 21 of the display screen 20. The first bending part 10b of the foldable support plate 10 can be stacked with the second bending part 23 of the display screen 20. The second fixing part 10c of the foldable support plate 10 is connected to the second part 22 of the display screen 20.
[0090] The foldable support plate 10 of the screen module 100, on the side opposite to the display screen 20, can be connected to the first housing 200 and the second housing 300. Specifically, the first fixing part 10a of the foldable support plate 10 is connected to the first housing 200. The second fixing part 10c of the foldable support plate 10 is connected to the second housing 300. The first bending part 10b of the foldable support plate 10 is stacked with the hinge 400 in the Z direction.
[0091] In this embodiment, when the foldable support plate 10 of the electronic device 1000 is folded, the first fiber 111 within the first support layer 11 is aligned with the folding axis. Therefore, the first fiber 111 primarily bears tensile or compressive stress, rather than bending stress. The bending stress generated by the first fiber 111 during folding is relatively small, which is beneficial for improving the folding performance of the foldable support plate 10. The first fiber 111 will not break due to repeated folding, thereby maintaining the structural stability and flatness of the first support layer 11, so that the first support layer 11 can stably support the display screen 20.
[0092] Because the first fiber 111 within the first support layer 11 does not extend in the Y direction, it cannot transfer heat along the Y direction. The second fiber 121 connects the first region 1201, the first bending region 1203, and the second region 1202 of the second support layer 12 in series. The second fiber 121 within the second support layer 12 can transfer heat between the first region 1201 and the first bending region 1203, and also transfer heat between the second region 1202 and the first bending region 1203. The second fiber 121 can prevent localized high temperatures in the first region 1201, the second region 1202, and the first bending region 1203. The foldable support plate 10 can quickly disperse heat to a larger area, avoiding localized overheating (such as at the screen edge or in the backlight module area), and preventing image defects such as uneven brightness and color shift caused by uneven temperature.
[0093] Furthermore, localized overheating can accelerate the aging of internal materials (such as polarizers and adhesives) in the screen module 100. Improving the heat dissipation performance of the foldable support plate 10 can extend the lifespan of the screen module 100 by reducing peak temperatures. Localized overheating may also reduce the capacitive response speed of the touch panel of the screen module 100. Improving the heat dissipation design of the foldable support plate 10 can also maintain stable touch performance and reduce the occurrence of accidental touches or malfunctions.
[0094] When the fiber extension direction is perpendicular to the bending axis, the bending stress increases significantly, and the fiber's bending recovery ability is weak, making it difficult for the foldable support plate to return to its original shape after being folded 10 times.
[0095] In this application, when the X direction is perpendicular to the Y direction, the extension direction of the second fiber 121 within the second support layer 12 differs from both the X and Y directions. The extension direction of the second fiber 121 forms an acute angle with both the straight lines containing the X and Y directions. In this case, the internal stress generated by the second fiber 121 during folding can be more effectively transmitted along its extension direction. This stress can manifest as tensile or compressive stress, or as bending stress, reducing the bending stress on the second fiber 121 and minimizing stress damage during folding, thus extending the service life of the foldable support plate 10.
[0096] Furthermore, since the second fiber 121 experiences less bending stress during folding, the first bending region 1203 of the second support layer 12 experiences less resistance during bending and is easier to bend. There is no need to punch holes or thin the second support layer 12 to improve the flexibility of the first bending region 1203. Therefore, the second support layer 12 will not increase its thermal resistance due to punching or thinning processes, thus ensuring the uniform heat distribution of the second support layer 12.
[0097] The fourth fiber 141 within the fourth support layer 14 is aligned with the folding axis. Therefore, the fourth fiber 141 primarily bears tensile or compressive stress, rather than bending stress. The bending stress generated in the fourth fiber 141 during folding is relatively small, which is beneficial for improving the folding performance of the foldable support plate 10. The fourth fiber 141 will not break due to repeated folding, thus maintaining the structural stability and flatness of the fourth support layer 14, allowing it to work in conjunction with the first support layer 11 and the second support layer 12 to stably support the display screen 20.
[0098] In the second possible embodiment, please refer to Figure 5 , Figure 5 yes Figure 2 The diagram shows an exploded view of a second embodiment of the foldable support plate 10. Unlike the foldable support plate 10 of the first embodiment, the foldable support plate 10 further includes a third support layer 13, which is connected to the side of the second support layer 12 facing away from the first support layer 11. The third support layer 13 is located between the second support layer 12 and the fourth support layer 14.
[0099] Please refer to the following: Figure 6 and Figure 7 , Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The diagram shows the structure of the second support layer 12. Figure 7 yes Figure 5 The diagram shows the structure of the third support layer 13. The third support layer 13 includes a plurality of third fibers 131 and a third matrix 132. The third fibers 131 are embedded within the third matrix 132.
[0100] The third support layer 13 is provided with a third region 1301, a fourth region 1302 and a second bending region 1303, and the third region 1301, the second bending region 1303 and the fourth region 1302 are arranged sequentially along the Y direction.
[0101] The extension direction of the third fiber 131 differs from that of the X and Y directions, and also differs from that of the second fiber 121 located within the first bending region 1203. A portion of the third fiber 131 extends from the third region 1301 to the second bending region 1303. A portion of the third fiber 131 extends from the second bending region to the fourth region 1302. Specifically, the extension direction of the third fiber 131 is symmetrical to the extension direction of the second fiber 121 about the bending axis of the foldable support plate 10. The angle α2 between the third fiber 131 and the X direction can be the same as α1. The material of the third fiber 131 may include pitch-based carbon fiber. The third fiber 131 is a unidirectional continuous fiber.
[0102] In this embodiment, the fiber material typically exhibits anisotropy, meaning its physical and mechanical properties differ in different directions. During bending, stress distribution occurs within the fiber material. When the fiber is not perpendicular to the bending direction, the stress distribution on the fiber is uneven, with some areas experiencing higher stress and others lower stress. This uneven stress distribution causes the fiber to deform in areas of higher stress, resulting in displacement.
[0103] Bending moment is generated during bending, which causes the fiber to bend and deform. When the fiber is not perpendicular to the bending direction, the effect of the bending moment on the fiber is different, making the fiber more likely to deviate along the direction of the bending moment during bending, and tending to coincide with the bending axis.
[0104] When the second fiber 121 is not perpendicular to the bending direction, the stiffness and strength of the second fiber 121 are different in different directions, which makes it easier for the second fiber 121 to deform and deviate along the direction with relatively low strength and stiffness during the bending process.
[0105] When another fiber with a different extension direction is superimposed, the stress is dispersed between the second fiber body 121 and the third fiber body 131 when external force is applied to the composite layer structure of the second support layer 12 and the third support layer 13. Since the two fibers (second fiber body 121 and third fiber body 131) have different extension directions, they can withstand stress in different directions, thus avoiding excessive stress concentration on a single fiber. In this way, the stress borne by each fiber (second fiber body 121 or third fiber body 131) is relatively reduced, decreasing the possibility of fiber (second fiber body 121 and third fiber body 131) shifting.
[0106] The interweaving of fibers with different extension directions (second fiber body 121 and third fiber body 131) increases the contact area and interaction points between them. This allows the fibers (second fiber body 121 and third fiber body 131) to better support and restrain each other during bending, reducing the occurrence of displacement due to imbalance of interaction forces. Two fibers with different extension directions can provide support from different directions, making the entire fiber structure more stable during bending. Even if a fiber in one direction tends to shift under external force, the fiber in the other direction can provide a reverse restraining force to prevent it from shifting.
[0107] In summary, superimposing a third fiber 131 with a different extension direction on the second support layer 12 where the second fiber 121 is located can effectively share the external force, reduce the offset of the second fiber 121 during the bending process, and suppress its tendency to coincide with the bending axis.
[0108] The second fiber 121 and the third fiber 131 can provide support from different but symmetrical directions, making the composite fiber layer of the entire second support layer 12 and the third support layer 13 more stable during bending. Even if the fiber in one direction tends to shift under the action of external force, the fiber in the other symmetrical direction can provide a reverse restraining force to prevent it from shifting, thereby maintaining the overall stability of the fiber structure.
[0109] Among these features, superimposed symmetrical fibers can optimize the thermal conductivity of the fiber structure. Two fibers extending in symmetrical directions can form a more uniform thermal network, improving heat transfer efficiency and enhancing the heat dissipation performance of the screen module 100. This avoids localized overheating of the screen module 100, ensuring a uniform temperature distribution throughout the screen module 100, allowing electronic components to operate at suitable temperatures, and reducing the risk of performance degradation of the screen module 100 due to high temperatures.
[0110] In the third possible embodiment, please refer to Figure 8 , Figure 8 yes Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the third embodiment of the second support layer 12 of the foldable support plate 10 shown. Unlike the foldable support plate 10 of the first embodiment, the second fiber body 121 is arranged in a curved shape.
[0111] Specifically, the second fiber 121 includes a first segment 1211, a second segment 1212, a first bending segment 1213, a first transition segment 1214, and a second transition segment 1215. The first segment 1211 is smoothly connected to the first bending segment 1213 through the first transition segment 1214, and the second segment 1212 is smoothly connected to the first bending segment 1213 through the second transition segment 1215.
[0112] In one possible implementation, the first segment 1211 is located in the first region 1201. The first segment 1211 extends along the Y direction. The first transition segment 1214 can extend from the first region 1201 to the first bending region 1203. The first bending segment 1213 is located in the first bending region 1203. The first bending segment 1213 is set at an angle to the straight line containing the X and Y directions. The angle α1 between the first bending segment 1213 and the straight line containing the Y direction satisfies: 0°<α1≤30°. The second transition segment 1215 can extend from the first bending region 1203 to the second region 1202. The second segment 1212 is located in the second region 1202. The second segment 1212 extends along the Y direction.
[0113] In another possible implementation, the first segment 1211 is located in the first region 1201. The first segment 1211 extends along the Y direction. The first transition segment 1214 is located in the first region 1201. The first bending segment 1213 is located in the first bending region 1203. The first bending segment 1213 is set at an angle to the straight lines containing the X and Y directions. The angle α1 between the first bending segment 1213 and the straight line containing the Y direction satisfies: 0°<α1≤30°. The second transition segment 1215 is located in the second region 1202. The second segment 1212 is located in the second region 1202. The second segment 1212 extends along the Y direction.
[0114] In another possible implementation, the first segment 1211 is located in the first region 1201. The first segment 1211 extends along the Y direction. The first transition segment 1214 is located in the first bending region 1203. The first bending segment 1213 is located in the first bending region 1203. The first bending segment 1213 is set at an angle to the straight lines containing the X and Y directions. The angle α1 between the first bending segment 1213 and the straight line containing the Y direction satisfies: 0°<α1≤30°. The second transition segment 1215 is located in the first bending region 1203. The second segment 1212 is located in the second region 1202. The second segment 1212 extends along the Y direction.
[0115] In this embodiment, the thermal conductivity along the first segment 1211 and the second segment 1212 of the second fiber 121 is generally higher than that perpendicular to the first segment 1211 and the second segment 1212 of the second fiber 121. This is because the fiber material exhibits a fibrous structure during the preparation process, and when the fiber direction is consistent with the heat conduction direction, the heat conduction path is smoother and the thermal conductivity is better.
[0116] The extension direction of the first segment 1211 and the second segment 1212 is consistent with the direction of heat conduction, allowing heat to be transferred more directly along the axial direction of the first segment 1211 and the second segment 1212, reducing thermal resistance. This structure enables heat to be quickly conducted from high-temperature areas to low-temperature areas, achieving a highly efficient heat dissipation effect.
[0117] In addition, the first segment 1211 and the second segment 1212 extend in a direction that provides a high modulus (e.g., the modulus of carbon fiber can reach 200-400 GPa), thereby effectively resisting deformation. When the display area corresponding to the first region 1201 and the display area corresponding to the second region 1202 of the screen module 100 are subjected to external force, the first segment 1211 and the second segment 1212 of the second fiber body 121 can effectively resist the external load, ensuring that the screen module 100 does not bend or collapse at the corresponding position.
[0118] Furthermore, the first transition section 1214 and the second transition section 1215 can make the extension of the second fiber 121 smoother, avoiding abrupt changes at the turning points of the second fiber 121. This prevents stress concentration in the second fiber 121. The smoothly distributed second fiber 121 can uniformly transmit stress, avoiding local overload, so that the stress is more balanced when the foldable support plate 10 bends, reducing the risk of breakage.
[0119] When fibers are generally arranged in a certain direction, the stiffness of that direction is significantly higher than that of the vertical direction. When the angle between the fibers and the bending axis decreases, the overall bending resistance of the material decreases, making the foldable support plate 10 easier to bend. At the same time, it can also prevent the fibers of the foldable support plate 10 from breaking due to excessive tensile / compressive stress when bending.
[0120] In this embodiment, setting the angle between the first bending segment 1213 and the bending axis to less than 30° ensures that the first bending segment 1213 is easier to bend, so that the rigidity of the first bending area 1203 of the second support layer 12 does not need to be reduced by drilling or thinning. The area corresponding to the first bending segment 1213 of the foldable support plate 10 is easy to bend, making the electronic device 1000 using the foldable support plate 10 smoother when folding / unfolding, requiring less effort from the user, and improving ease of use.
[0121] In the fourth possible embodiment, please refer to Figure 9 , Figure 9 yes Figure 2 The diagram shows a fourth embodiment of the foldable support plate 10 with its third support layer 13. Unlike the foldable support plate 10 of the third embodiment, the foldable support plate 10 of the fourth embodiment further includes the third support layer 13.
[0122] The third support layer 13 includes a third substrate 132 and a plurality of third fibers 131. The third fibers 131 are embedded within the third substrate 132.
[0123] The third support layer 13 is provided with a third region 1301, a fourth region 1302 and a second bending region 1303, and the third region 1301, the second bending region 1303 and the fourth region 1302 are arranged sequentially along the Y direction.
[0124] The third fiber 131 includes a third segment 1311, a fourth segment 1312, a second bending segment 1313, a third transition segment 1314, and a fourth transition segment 1315. The third segment 1311 is smoothly connected to the second bending segment 1313 through the third transition segment 1314, and the fourth segment 1312 is smoothly connected to the second bending segment 1313 through the fourth transition segment 1315.
[0125] The third segment 1311 is located in the third region 1301. The third segment 1311 extends along the Y direction. The third transition segment 1314 can extend from the third region 1301 to the second bending region 1303. The second bending segment 1313 is located in the second bending region 1303. The second bending segment 1313 is set at an angle to the lines containing the X and Y directions. The angle α2 between the second bending segment 1313 and the line containing the Y direction satisfies: 0°<α2≤30°. The extension direction of the second bending segment 1313 within the second bending region 1303 is symmetrical to the extension direction of the second fiber 121 within the first bending region 1203 about the line containing the X direction. The fourth transition segment 1315 can extend from the second bending region 1303 to the fourth region 1302. The second segment 1212 is located in the second region 1202. The second segment 1212 extends along the Y direction.
[0126] The third region 1301 is stacked with the first region 1201 of the second support layer 12 in the Z direction. The fourth region 1302 is stacked with the fourth region 1302 of the second support layer 12 in the Z direction. The second bending region 1303 is stacked with the first bending region 1203 of the second support layer 12 in the Z direction.
[0127] This application also provides a method for manufacturing a foldable support plate 10. The method for manufacturing the foldable support plate 10 provided in this application is used to improve the thermal conductivity of the foldable support plate 10. The specific structure of the foldable support plate 10 can be referred to the accompanying drawings and the description above. Furthermore, any improvements to the structure of the foldable support plate 10 described below can be applied to the above description of the foldable support plate 10 unless there is conflict. The manufacturing method can be applied to the manufacturing of the foldable support plate 10 of the first embodiment described above.
[0128] Please refer to Figure 10 , Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for preparing the second support layer 12 of a foldable support plate 10 according to an embodiment of this application. The method for preparing the foldable support plate 10 includes:
[0129] Please see Figure 11 , Figure 11 yes Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the structure of the initial second support layer 120 in step S100 of the method for preparing the second support layer 12 shown.
[0130] S100: Provides the first support layer;
[0131] S200: Provide an initial second support layer 120, wherein the initial second support layer 120 is provided with a first region 1201, a second region 1202 and a first bending region 1203, and the first region 1201, the first bending region 1203 and the second region 1202 are arranged sequentially along the second direction. The second support layer 12 includes a plurality of initial second fibers 1210, the initial second fibers 1210 extend along the second direction, and the second fibers 121 extend from the first region 1201, through the first bending region 1203 to the second region 1202.
[0132] S300: Initial heating of the second support layer 120.
[0133] Specifically, please refer to the following: Figure 12 and Figure 13 , Figure 12 yes Figure 10 The diagram shows a schematic of the operation angle in step S200 of the method for preparing the second support layer 12. Figure 13 yes Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram from another angle of the operation in step S200 of the method for preparing the second support layer 12. The first region 1201 and the second region 1202 of the second support layer 12 can be held by clamps 1 respectively, and then placed on the heating plate 2 for heating.
[0134] Please see Figure 14 , Figure 14 yes Figure 10 A schematic diagram of step S300 in the method for preparing the second support layer 12 shown.
[0135] S400: Move the first region 1201 in the first direction, and move the second region 1202 in the opposite direction of the first direction. The first direction is perpendicular to the second direction.
[0136] Specifically, after the first bending region 1203 of the second support layer 12 is softened, the clamping plate 1 of the first region 1201 and the clamping plate 1 of the second region 1202 are moved in opposite directions until the direction of the second fiber 121 of the first bending region 1203 reaches a preset angle.
[0137] S500: Cool the initial second support layer 120 to form the second support layer 12, wherein the extension direction of the second fiber 121 within the first bending region 1203 of the second support layer 12 is different from the first direction and the second direction.
[0138] Specifically, S500: Cooling the initial second support layer 120 to form the second support layer 12 includes:
[0139] The initial second support layer 120 is cooled and then cut to form the second support layer 12. Once the cooled initial second support layer 120 is prepared, it can be cut to achieve the desired shape and size for the second support layer 12.
[0140] S600: The first support layer and the second support layer are stacked to form the foldable support plate 10.
[0141] The above are exemplary embodiments of this application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make several improvements and modifications 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.
Claims
1. A foldable support plate, characterized in that, It includes a first support layer and a second support layer that are stacked together; The first support layer includes a plurality of first fibers, each of which extends along a first direction, the first direction being the extension direction of the bending axis of the foldable support plate. The second support layer has a first region, a second region, and a first bending region. The first region, the first bending region, and the second region are connected sequentially along a second direction. The second support layer includes a plurality of second fibers. At least a portion of the second fibers extend from the first region to the first bending region, and at least a portion of the second fibers extend from the first bending region to the second region. The extension direction of the second fibers in the first bending region is different from the first direction and the second direction.
2. The foldable support plate according to claim 1, characterized in that, The foldable support plate further includes a third support layer, which is connected to the side of the second support layer away from the first support layer. The third support layer includes a plurality of third fibers, the extension direction of which is different from the first direction and the second direction, and the extension direction of which is different from the extension direction of the second fibers located in the first bending area.
3. The foldable support plate according to claim 2, characterized in that, The third support layer is provided with a third region, a fourth region, and a second bending region. Along the second direction, the third region, the second bending region, and the fourth region are arranged sequentially. At least a portion of the third fiber extends from the third region to the second bending region, and at least a portion of the third fiber extends from the second bending region to the fourth region. The extension direction of the third fiber in the second bending region is symmetrical about the bending axis of the foldable support plate to the extension direction of the second fiber in the first bending region.
4. The foldable support plate according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The second fiber body includes a first segment, a second segment, and a first bent segment, which are connected in sequence. The first segment is located in the first region, the first bent segment is located in the first bent region, and the second segment is located in the second region. The first segment and the second segment extend along the second direction. One end of the first bent segment is connected to the first segment and the other end is connected to the second segment. The first bent segment is set at an angle to the straight line containing the second direction.
5. The foldable support plate according to claim 4, characterized in that, The angle α1 between the first bent segment and the straight line containing the second direction satisfies: 0°<α1≤30°.
6. The foldable support plate according to claim 4, characterized in that, The second fiber is a high thermal conductivity fiber with a thermal conductivity greater than 100 W / (m·K).
7. The foldable support plate according to claim 4, characterized in that, The second fiber further includes a first transition segment and a second transition segment, wherein the first segment is smoothly connected to the first bending segment through the first transition segment, and the second segment is smoothly connected to the first bending segment through the second transition segment.
8. The foldable support plate according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The foldable support plate further includes a fourth support layer, which is located on the side of the second support layer away from the first support layer. The fourth support layer has a plurality of fourth fibers, each of which extends along the first direction.
9. The foldable support plate according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The second bending area of the second support layer does not have a perforated structure.
10. The foldable support plate according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The material of the first fiber body includes T700 carbon fiber.
11. The foldable support plate according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The material of the second fiber includes pitch-based carbon fiber.
12. The foldable support plate according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first fiber body is made of T700 carbon fiber, the second fiber body is made of pitch-based carbon fiber, and the fourth fiber body is made of T700 carbon fiber.
13. The foldable support plate according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The second fiber body is a unidirectional continuous fiber.
14. A screen module, characterized in that, It includes a display screen and a foldable support plate as described in any one of claims 1-13, wherein the display screen and the foldable support plate are stacked together.
15. An electronic device, characterized in that, The device includes a first housing, a second housing, a hinge, and a screen module as described in claim 14. The first housing and the second housing are connected by the hinge. The first housing, the hinge, and the second housing are arranged sequentially along the second direction. The screen module is fixedly connected to the first housing and the second housing. The first bending area of the second support layer is stacked with the hinge in the thickness direction of the electronic device.