Foldable portable display device

Abstract

An exemplary folding device includes a hinge assembly that is flush with the device's continuous display to reduce the device's thickness. The hinge assembly includes a torque member that increases the amount of force required to rotate the assembly. In this manner, the torque member may provide a more rigid feel to the device. Also, in this manner, the torque member may allow the device to maintain intermediate positions between a fully open and a fully closed state.

Description

[Background technology]

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

[0002] In general, aspects of the present disclosure relate to a folding device including a foldable continuous display having a supported span. The folding device may include at least two assemblies (e.g., panels) and a mechanism configured to enable the assemblies to be moved between a folded state, in which the device is considered closed, and an unfolded state, in which the device is considered open. When the device is in the unfolded state, the display may be visible and may cover at least a portion of the inner surface of all assemblies. Thus, the device may be considered a continuous display (i.e., because the device is continuous across the boundaries between the assemblies). By utilizing such a folding device, the device may include a display having a relatively long length and / or width (e.g., display area) when in the folded state without excessively increasing the length and / or width of the device. In this manner, the "pocketability" of large-screen portable devices may be improved.

[0003] In some examples, a folding device may have a thickness that impairs the pocketability of the device. The thickness of the device may be due to the position of the hinge assembly relative to the device's display. In some examples, depending on the configuration of the hinge assembly, the hinge assembly's feel (e.g., how the device 100 feels to the user as it opens and closes), auto-lock (e.g., holding an intermediate position between a fully open and a fully closed position), cycle life, opening and closing force advantages, etc. may be improved.

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

[0005] In one example, a folding device includes a continuous display, a hinge assembly defining a first hinge axis and a second hinge axis and comprising a barrel, a first hinge arm assembly rotatably connected to the hinge assembly about the first hinge axis, a second hinge arm assembly rotatably connected to the hinge assembly about the second hinge axis, a first shaft defining a first shaft axis and connected to the barrel, a second shaft defining a second shaft axis and connected to the barrel, and a lever attached to the first shaft and configured to apply a first bias torque about the first shaft axis. a first torque member configured to rotate about the second shaft axis and slide relative to the first hinge arm assembly; a second torque member attached to the second shaft and configured to apply a second bias torque about the second shaft axis; and a first torque arm mechanically coupled to the first torque member, the first torque arm configured to rotate about the first shaft axis and slide relative to the first hinge arm assembly; and the folding device further comprises a second torque arm mechanically coupled to the second torque member, the second torque arm configured to rotate about the second shaft axis and slide relative to the second hinge arm assembly.

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

[0007] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a cross section of a folding device with a multi-rigid segment flexible display according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 1A-1C are schematic diagrams illustrating a folding device with a flexible display in multiple folding states according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating components of a folding device with a hinge assembly according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4]1A and 1B are schematic diagrams illustrating components of a folding device with a hinge assembly according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] 1A-1C are schematic diagrams illustrating a folding device having a hinge assembly in multiple folded states according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a folding device with a continuous display and a hinge assembly according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a cam assembly according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 1 is a graph illustrating torque applied by a hinge assembly, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a cross section of a foldable device 100 with a multi-rigid segment flexible display according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Examples of device 100 include foldable portable computing devices such as a foldable smartphone, a foldable tablet, a foldable e-reader, a foldable gaming system, or any other foldable device that includes a display.

[0009] As shown in FIG. 1 , device 100 includes a first assembly 102, a second assembly 104, a continuous display 106, and a hinge assembly 122. First assembly 102 can be configured to rotate about a first hinge axis 116A that defines a first hinge axis in the y-direction, and second assembly 104 can be configured to rotate about a second hinge axis 116B that defines a second hinge axis in the y-direction. Each of first assembly 102 and second assembly 104 can include an inner surface and an outer surface. The outer surface of first assembly 102 can be visible when looking down on device 100 in the z-axis, and the outer surface of second assembly 104 can be visible when looking up on device 100 in the z-axis. The inner surfaces of first assembly 102 and second assembly 104 may not be visible from the outside when device 100 is closed.

[0010] 1, the first assembly 102 can include a main logic board 134, and the second assembly 104 can include a battery 136. This is just one example of an arrangement of components between the first assembly 102 and / or the second assembly 104, and other arrangements are possible. For example, both the first assembly 102 and the second assembly 104 can include a respective battery.

[0011] Continuous display 106 may be capable of rendering data into an image viewable by a user of device 100. For example, continuous display 106 may include a matrix of individually controllable pixels. Examples of continuous display 106 include, but are not limited to, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, a micro light emitting diode (microLED) display, or similar monochrome or color display capable of outputting information viewable to a user of device 100.

[0012] In some examples, device 100 may include one or more displays in addition to continuous display 106. For example, as shown in FIG. 1 , device 100 may include a first additional display (e.g., display 198) on an exterior surface of first assembly 102. In some examples, device 100 may further include a second additional display on an exterior surface of second assembly 104.

[0013] One or more of the continuous display 106, the first additional display, and / or the second additional display may be a presence-aware display. In some examples, the presence-aware display may detect objects at and / or near the screen. As an example of a range, the presence-aware display may detect an object, such as a finger or stylus, within two inches or less of the screen. The presence-aware display may determine the screen location (e.g., (x, y) coordinates) at which the object is detected. In another example range, the presence-aware display may detect an object six inches or less from the screen, with other ranges also possible. The presence-aware display may use capacitive, inductive, and / or optical recognition technology to determine the screen location selected by the user's finger. In some examples, the presence-aware display also provides output to the user using tactile, audio, and / or visual cues.

[0014] 1 , the continuous display 106 includes a first rigid segment 110 attached to the first assembly 102 (e.g., disposed on and flush with the inner surface of the first assembly 102), a flexible segment 108, and a second rigid segment 112 attached to the second assembly 104 (e.g., disposed on and flush with the inner surface of the second assembly 104). As further shown in the example of FIG. 1 , the flexible segment 108 includes a rigid segment 124 connecting the rigid segment 110 to the flexible segment 108 and a rigid segment 126 connecting the rigid segment 112 to the flexible segment 108. When the device 100 is fully unfolded, the rigid segment 124 can be flush with the inner surface of the first assembly 102, and the rigid segment 126 can be flush with the inner surface of the second assembly 104. However, when device 100 is fully closed, rigid segment 124 may not be flush with the inner surface of first assembly 102, and rigid segment 126 may not be flush with the inner surface of second assembly 104. Rigid segment 124 may be articulatable relative to rigid segment 110 at hinge point 130. Rigid segment 126 may be articulatable relative to rigid segment 112 at hinge point 132.

[0015] Rigid segments 110 and 112 can be referred to as primary rigid segments, and rigid segments 124 and 126 can be referred to as secondary rigid segments. In some examples, the width (e.g., in the x-direction) of the primary rigid segments can be substantially greater than the width of the secondary rigid segments. For example, the width of rigid segment 124 can be less than or equal to one-quarter (25%) of the width of rigid segment 110. Similarly, the width of rigid segment 126 can be less than or equal to one-quarter (25%) of the width of rigid segment 112.

[0016] The secondary rigid segments may be articulatable relative to adjacent primary rigid segments. As one example, rigid segment 124 may be articulatable relative to rigid segment 110 at hinge point 130. As another example, rigid segment 126 may be articulatable relative to rigid segment 112 at hinge point 132. In some examples, the articulation points between the secondary rigid segments and the primary rigid segments (e.g., hinge points 130 and 132) may have a large radius and limited travel compared to the radius and travel of the primary flexible segment 108. As one example, rigid segment 124 may be configured to articulate a maximum of 45 degrees relative to rigid segment 110. As another example, rigid segment 126 may be configured to articulate a maximum of 45 degrees relative to rigid segment 112.

[0017] Primary flexible segment 108 may connect a rigid segment on one side of device 100 to a rigid segment on the other side of device 100. For example, as shown in FIG. 1 , primary flexible segment 108 can connect rigid segment 124 to rigid segment 126. Primary flexible segment 108 can be configured to fold at least 180 degrees (e.g., to facilitate closure of device 100).

[0018] Device 100 may include one or more support plates (e.g., backer plates) configured to make the segments of continuous display 106 flexible or rigid. The support plates may be disposed between the light-emitting elements (e.g., OLEDs) of continuous display 106 and the interior surfaces of first assembly 102 and second assembly 104.

[0019] In some examples, device 100 may include respective support plates for the segments of continuous display 106. For example, the one or more support plates may include a first support plate attached to first rigid segment 110, a second support plate attached to second rigid segment 112, a third support plate attached to rigid segment 124, and / or a fourth support plate attached to rigid segment 126.

[0020] In some examples, the one or more support plates may include a respective support plate for each of the first assembly 102 and the second assembly 104 that supports a segment of the continuous display 106 on the respective assembly. For example, the one or more support plates may include a first support plate attached to the first rigid segment 110 and the rigid segment 124 configured to allow bending between the first rigid segment 110 and the rigid segment 124, and a second support plate attached to the second rigid segment 112 and the rigid segment 126 configured to allow bending between the second rigid segment 112 and the rigid segment 126.

[0021] In some examples, the one or more support plates may include a single support plate attached to segments of the continuous display 106 of both the first assembly 102 and the second assembly 104. For example, the one or more support plates may include a single support plate attached to the primary flexible segment 108 and all of the primary and secondary rigid segments (e.g., first rigid segment 110, second rigid segment 112, rigid segment 124, and rigid segment 126). The single support plate can be configured to allow bending between the segments. To allow bending between the segments, the support plate can be etched and / or perforated at the boundaries between adjacent segments.

[0022] In some examples, device 100 may have a thickness that impairs the pocketability of device 100. For example, when device 100 is in a folded state, in which device 100 may be considered closed, device 100 may have a thickness of more than 10 millimeters (mm). The thickness of device 100 may be due to the position of hinge assembly 122 relative to display 106. For example, if hinge assembly 122 is not flush with display 106, hinge assembly 122 may significantly increase the thickness of device 100.

[0023] In accordance with the techniques of the present disclosure, hinge assembly 122 may be configured to allow for a thinner folding device while improving one or more of the feel, auto-lock, cycle life, or opening and closing force advantages of device 100. For example, as described in more detail below, hinge assembly 122 may include torque members that provide a more rigid feel to device 100, allow device 100 to auto-lock, improve cycle life and opening and closing force advantages, etc. In this manner, hinge assembly 122 may provide better or equivalent performance (e.g., better feel, auto-lock, cycle life, opening and closing force advantages, etc.) in a thinner housing.

[0024] 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a folding device 200 with a flexible continuous display 206 in multiple folded states, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Device 200 may be an example of device 100 shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 2, when device 200 is closed, a portion of display 206 resides within hinge assembly 222. As shown in FIG. 2, when folding device 200 is fully open, the inner surface of first assembly 202 is flush with the inner surface of second assembly 204.

[0025] The torque member of the hinge assembly 222 may be configured to apply a bias torque that resists rotation of the hinge arm assembly 222. In this manner, the torque member may allow the device 200 to hold an intermediate position between the fully open state shown in FIG.

[0026] 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating components of a folding device 300 with a hinge assembly 322 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Device 300 may be an example of device 100 shown in FIG. 1. As described in more detail below, the components of device 300 may be configured to allow the folding device to be thinner while improving one or more of the following benefits: feel, autolock, cycle life, or opening and closing force of device 300.

[0027] Hinge assembly 322 may be one example of hinge assembly 122 shown in Figure 1. A first hinge arm assembly 342A and a second hinge arm assembly 342B (collectively "hinge arm assemblies 342") may be rotatably connected to hinge assembly 322. For example, first hinge arm assembly 342A may be rotatably connected to hinge assembly 322 about first hinge axis 360A, and second hinge arm assembly 342B may be rotatably connected to hinge assembly 322 about second hinge axis 360B.

[0028] The hinge assembly 322 may include a first hinge gear 344A and a second hinge gear 344B (collectively "hinge gears 344"). The first hinge gear 344A may be configured to rotate about a first hinge axis, and the second hinge gear 344B may be configured to rotate about a second hinge axis. The hinge gears 344 may extend from or be otherwise connected to the hinge arm assembly 342. In the example of FIG. 3, the first hinge gear 344A extends from the first hinge arm assembly 342A, and the second hinge gear 344B extends from the second hinge arm assembly 342B.

[0029] The hinge assembly 322 may be configured to synchronize the movement of the hinge arm assemblies 342 when the device 300 moves between the open and closed positions. For example, the first hinge gear 344A may be configured to mesh with the second hinge gear 344B to synchronize the movement of the first hinge arm assembly 342A and the second hinge arm assembly 342B. In another example, the hinge assembly 322 may include a first auxiliary gear 346A and a second auxiliary gear 346B (collectively "auxiliary gears 346"). The first auxiliary gear 346A may be configured to mesh with the first hinge gear 344A and the second auxiliary gear 346B to synchronize the movement of the first hinge arm assembly 342A and the second hinge arm assembly 342B. The second auxiliary gear 346B can be configured to mesh with the second hinge gear 344B and the first auxiliary gear 346A to synchronize the movement of the first hinge arm assembly 342A and the second hinge arm assembly 342B.

[0030] First torque member 348A and second torque member 348B (collectively "torque members 348") may be configured to apply a bias torque that resists rotation of hinge arm assembly 322. In this manner, torque members 348 may provide a more rigid feel to device 300. Also, in this manner, torque members 348 may allow device 300 to hold an intermediate position between a fully open and a fully closed state (e.g., a half-open position in which hinge arm assembly 342, and thus first and second assemblies of device 300, are at approximately a 90-degree angle relative to one another).

[0031] Torque member 348 may be attached to a first shaft 350A and a second shaft 350B (collectively "shafts 350"). Shaft 350 may be connected to a barrel 352 of hinge assembly 322. The connection between shaft 350 and barrel 352 may be rotationally fixed. In some examples, first shaft 350A may be welded or otherwise attached to a first sidewall defined by barrel 352, and second shaft 350B may be welded or otherwise attached to a second sidewall defined by barrel 352.

[0032] The first torque arm 354A and the second torque arm 354B (collectively "torque arms 354") may be mechanically coupled to the torque member 348. For example, the first torque arm 354A may be in contact with the first torque member 348A, and the second torque arm 354B may be in contact with the second torque member 348B. In some examples, the torque arms 354 may be connected to a cam, which is in contact with the torque member 348. The interface between the torque member 348 and the torque arm 354 may be designed to modify the bias torque applied by the torque member 348.

[0033] The first torque arm 354A may be configured to rotate about a first shaft axis 366A defined by the first shaft 350A. Rotation of the first torque arm 354A (and consequently rotation of the first torque member 348A) about the first shaft axis 366A may cause the first torque member 348A to apply a first bias torque. Similarly, the second torque arm 354B may be configured to rotate about a second shaft axis 366B defined by the second shaft 350B. Rotation of the second torque arm 354B (and consequently rotation of the second torque member 348B) about the second shaft axis 366B may cause the second torque member 348B to apply a second bias torque.

[0034] Hinge assembly 322 may be configured to synchronize the movement of hinge arm assembly 342 and torque arm 354 when device 300 moves between the open and closed positions. For example, hinge arm assembly 342 may be mechanically coupled to torque arm 354 such that movement of hinge arm assembly 342 causes movement of torque arm 354 (and consequently torque member 348). In this manner, hinge assembly 322 may advantageously adjust or otherwise control the amount of force required to open and close device 300.

[0035] In some examples, the first hinge axis defined by the hinge assembly 322 may not be coaxial with the first shaft axis defined by the first shaft 350A, and the second hinge axis defined by the hinge assembly 322 may not be coaxial with the second shaft axis defined by the second shaft 350B. In such examples, as described in more detail below, the torque arm 354 may move relative to the hinge arm assembly 342 to facilitate rotation of the hinge arm assembly 342. In other words, the torque arm 354 configured to move relative to the hinge arm assembly 342 may improve rotation of the hinge arm assembly 342, for example, by reducing unwanted resistance resulting from geometric constraints.

[0036] Thus, the first torque arm 354A can slide or otherwise move relative to the first hinge arm assembly 342A, and the second torque arm 354B can slide or otherwise move relative to the second hinge arm assembly 342B. For example, the first hinge arm assembly 342A can define a first channel (e.g., a slot) in which a portion of the first torque arm 354A, e.g., the first pin 370A, is disposed, and the second hinge arm assembly 342B can define a second channel in which a portion of the second torque arm 354B, e.g., the second pin 370B, is disposed. The first pin 370A of the first torque arm 354A can slide within the first channel, and the second pin 370B of the second torque arm 354B can slide within the second channel.

[0037] When the torque arm 354 contacts the periphery of the first and second channels, the torque arm 354 and the hinge arm assembly 342 can apply a torque to one another. For example, the hinge arm assembly 342 can apply a torque to the torque arm 354 to rotate the torque arm 354 about the first and second shaft axes, and the torque arm 354 can apply a first bias torque and a second bias torque to resist rotation of the hinge arm assembly 342 about the first and second hinge arm axes.

[0038] 4A-4B are schematic diagrams illustrating components of a folding device 400 including a hinge assembly 422, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The hinge assembly 422 may be an example of the hinge assembly 122 shown in FIG. 1 and / or the hinge assembly 422 shown in FIG. 3.

[0039] 4A, the hinge assembly 422 can include a first hinge gear 444A and a second hinge gear 444B (collectively "hinge gears 444"). The first hinge gear 444A can be configured to rotate about a first hinge axis 460A defined by the hinge assembly 422, and the second hinge gear 444B can be configured to rotate about a second hinge axis 460B defined by the hinge assembly 422.

[0040] The first hinge gear 444A may be configured to mesh with the second hinge gear 444B to synchronize the movement of the first hinge arm assembly 442A and the second hinge arm assembly 442B (collectively "hinge arm assemblies 442"). In some examples, the hinge assembly 422 may include a first auxiliary gear 446A and a second auxiliary gear 446B (collectively "auxiliary gears 446"). The first auxiliary gear 446A may be configured to mesh with the first hinge gear 444A and the second auxiliary gear 446B to synchronize the movement of the first hinge arm assembly 442A and the second hinge arm assembly 442B. The second auxiliary gear 446B may be configured to mesh with the second hinge gear 444B and the first auxiliary gear 446A to synchronize the movement of the first hinge arm assembly 442A and the second hinge arm assembly 442B.

[0041] The hinge assembly 422 may include a barrel 452. The barrel 452 may at least partially enclose the hinge gear 444 and the auxiliary gear 446. The barrel cap 462 may be configured to mate with the barrel 452 such that the barrel 452 and the barrel cap 462 protect the hinge gear 444 and the auxiliary gear 446. In some examples, the barrel cap 462 may be permanently attached (e.g., welded or glued) to the barrel 452. Permanently attaching the barrel cap 462 to the barrel 452 may provide better axial dimensional control and a robust gearbox design. For example, by having the barrel cap 462 and the barrel 452 as separate components configured to attach to each other, the barrel cap 462 and the barrel 452 may be manufactured more efficiently and precisely, which may be particularly important due to the small dimensions of the barrel cap 462 and the barrel 452. For similar reasons, gearbox components (e.g., hinge gear 444, auxiliary gear 446, etc.) may be more directly assembled and aligned to allow for tighter tolerances, potentially producing a better-functioning (e.g., smoother) hinge action. Barrel cover 464 may be attached to barrel cap 462 (e.g., via a press fit, adhesive, or any other suitable technique).

[0042] As shown in FIG. 4B , the hinge assembly 422 may include a first shaft 450A and a second shaft 450B (collectively, “shafts 450”). The shaft 450 may be connected to a barrel 452. A first torque member 448A and a second torque member 448B may be attached to the first shaft 450A and the second shaft 450B, respectively. The first shaft 450A may define a first shaft axis 466A, and the second shaft 450B may define a second shaft axis 466B. The first torque member 448A may be configured to rotate about the first shaft axis 466A, thereby causing the first torque member 448A to apply a first bias torque. Similarly, the second torque member 448B may be configured to rotate about the second shaft axis 466B, thereby causing the second torque member 448B to apply a second bias torque.

[0043] 4B , the first hinge axis 460A is not coaxial with the first shaft axis 466A, and the second hinge axis 460B is not coaxial with the second shaft axis 466B. To enable opening and closing of the device 400, the first hinge arm assembly 442A can define a first channel 468A in which a first pin 470A of the first torque arm 454A can be disposed, and the second hinge arm assembly 442B can define a second channel 468B in which a second pin 470B of the second torque arm 454B can be disposed. The first pin 470A can slide within the first channel 468A, and the second pin 470B can slide within the second channel 468B, allowing the device 300 to be opened and closed.

[0044] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a folding device 500 having a hinge assembly 522 in multiple folding states in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 5 illustrates folding device 500 in all three states: a fully open state, a fully closed state, and an intermediate (e.g., 45-degree) state. Device 500 may be an example of device 100 shown in FIG. 1 , device 200 shown in FIG. 2 , device 300 shown in FIG. 3 , and / or device 400 shown in FIG. 4 . As shown in FIG. 5 , first hinge arm assembly 542A defines a first channel 568A in which a first pin 570A can be disposed, and second hinge arm assembly 542B defines a second channel 568B in which a second pin 570B can be disposed. As shown in FIG. 5, when the device 500 opens and closes, due to the shape of the hinge assembly 522 (e.g., the hinge axis and shaft axis are not coaxial), the first pin 570A slides within the first channel 568A and the second pin 570B slides within the second channel 568B.

[0045] The device 500 may include a first support plate 572A and a second support plate 572B (collectively, "support plates 572"). The support plates 572 may be configured to be foldable. For example, contact between the support plate 572 and an edge of the hinge assembly 522 may cause the support plate 572 to unfold as the device 500 is opened. For example, contact between the foldable support plate 572 and edges 574A-574B (collectively, "edges 574") of the hinge assembly 522 may cause the foldable support plate 572 to unfold. While the edges 574 of the hinge assembly 522 may cause the foldable support plate 572 to unfold (e.g., lift up, etc.), it may be desirable for the foldable support plate 572 to be easily undeployed (e.g., lowered, folded, etc.) when the folding device 500 is closed.

[0046] The device 500 may include one or more bias members, such as a first bias member 576A and a second bias member 576B (collectively, "bias members 576"). The first bias member 576A can be connected to the first support plate 572A, and the second bias member 576B can be connected to the second support plate 572B. As shown in FIG. 5, the first bias member 576A is configured to facilitate articulation of the first support plate 572A relative to the first hinge arm assembly 542A. As further shown in FIG. 5, the second bias member 576B is configured to facilitate articulation of the second support plate 572B relative to the second hinge arm assembly 542B.

[0047] In some examples, the bias member 576 may be configured to bias the support plate 572 to a folded (e.g., non-deployed) position. For example, the device 500 may include a first bias member 576A positioned in the first assembly 542A and a second bias member 576B positioned in the second assembly 542B. The first bias member 576A may be configured to bias the first support plate 572A to a folded position, and the second bias member 576B may be configured to bias the second support plate 572B to a folded position. In some examples, the device 500 may include a single bias member per side (e.g., one bias member in each of the first assembly 542A and the second assembly 542B). In some examples, the device 500 may include multiple bias members per side (e.g., two or more bias members in each of the first assembly 542A and the second assembly 542B). Examples of first bias member 576A and second bias member 576B include spring loaded pins, hydraulic pistons, and the like.

[0048] As described above, the first bias member 576A and the second bias member 576B may each bias the support plate 572 toward the undeployed position. However, the force applied to the support plate 572 by the edge 574 may be sufficient to overcome the force applied to the foldable support plate 572 by the first bias member 576A and the second bias member 576B. However, as the device 500 transitions to the closed position, the first bias member 576A and the second bias member 576B may each pull the foldable support plate 572 down toward the folded position.

[0049] 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a folding device 600 with a continuous display 606 and a hinge assembly 622, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Device 600 may be an example of device 100 shown in FIG. 1, device 200 shown in FIG. 2, device 300 shown in FIG. 3, device 400 shown in FIG. 4, and / or device 500 shown in FIG. 5.

[0050] Hinge assembly 622 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure may not be below or above display 606, but rather, a cross section of hinge assembly 622 may be flush with a longitudinal cross section of display 606. In the example of FIG. 6 , when display 606 is fully unfolded, as shown by plane 680 (e.g., an x-y plane that intersects display 606), the cross section of hinge assembly 622 is flush with a longitudinal cross section of display 606. Because hinge assembly 622 is not below or above display 606 (e.g., relative to plane 680) but is instead flush, the form factor of device 600 may be thinner, improving the pocketability of device 600.

[0051] 7 is a schematic diagram of a cam assembly 780 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 7, the cam assembly 780 may include a cam mechanically coupled to a torque member 748. For example, the cam assembly 780 may include a fixed cam 781, a rotating cam 782, and a sliding cam 784. A torque arm (e.g., first torque arm 354A) may be coupled to the rotating cam 782 such that rotation of the torque arm causes a corresponding rotation of the rotating cam 782.

[0052] The components of cam assembly 780 may operate together to apply a bias torque in accordance with the techniques of the present disclosure. For example, a bias force applied by torque member 748 may urge sliding cam 784 against rotating cam 782. When rotating cam 782 and sliding cam 784 are engaged in this manner, friction between fixed rotating cam 782 and sliding cam 784 (e.g., in response to rotation of rotating cam 782) may create a torque.

[0053] 7, the rotating cam 782 and the sliding cam 784 may each have a profile such that the rotating cam 782 and the sliding cam 784 may contact one another at various angles. The angle at which the rotating cam 782 and the sliding cam 784 contact one another may affect the torque generated by friction between the fixed rotating cam 782 and the sliding cam 784. Therefore, modifying the profile of the rotating cam 782 and / or the sliding cam 784 may change the torque generated by the cam assembly 780. In some examples, the profile of the rotating cam 782 and / or the sliding cam 784 may allow for a torque that varies with the rotation of the rotating cam 782 relative to the sliding cam 784.

[0054] As the rotating cam 782 rotates relative to the sliding cam 784, the torque member 748 may press the sliding cam 784 against a detent (e.g., a catch such as a recess that prevents movement until released) on the rotating cam 782. Similarly (and simultaneously), the rotating cam 782 may press against a detent on the fixed cam 781. When the sliding cam 784 is positioned in the detent on the rotating cam 782 and the rotating cam 782 is positioned in the detent on the fixed cam 781, the fixed cam 781, the rotating cam 782, and the sliding cam 784 may be in a relatively stable configuration that feels "locked." Depending on the angular position of rotating cam 782, fixed cam 781, rotating cam 782, and sliding cam 784 may be in this "locked" configuration when cam assembly 780 is open or closed, creating an "auto-open" and "auto-close" feel (e.g., because torque member 748 applies a biasing force that automatically presses fixed cam 781, rotating cam 782, and sliding cam 784 against their respective detents when rotating cam 782 is rotating).

[0055] 8 is a graph illustrating torque exerted by a hinge assembly according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 will be described primarily with respect to hinge assembly 122 shown in FIG. 1. However, it should be understood that the description of FIG. 8 may be equally applicable to any other hinge assembly described herein.

[0056] The bias torque exerted by the hinge assembly 122 may vary based on the angular position of the hinge assembly 122 and the direction in which the hinge assembly 122 is rotated. For example, as shown in FIG. 8 , the hinge assembly 122 may apply a bias torque of approximately 250 Newton-millimeters (N·mm) when the hinge assembly 122 is in a 0-degree angular position (e.g., when the device 100 is fully closed) and is opened (e.g., as the angular position of the hinge assembly 122 changes from 0 degrees toward 180 degrees). The bias torque applied by the hinge assembly 122 may decrease from approximately 250 N·mm to approximately 100 N·mm when the hinge assembly 122 is opened from an angular position of approximately 0 degrees to approximately 30 degrees. The bias torque applied by the hinge assembly 122 may be approximately 100 N·mm when the hinge assembly 122 is opened from an angular position of approximately 30 degrees to 150 degrees. The bias torque applied by the hinge assembly 122 may decrease from approximately 100 N·mm to approximately 0 N·mm when the hinge assembly 122 is opened to an angular position of approximately 180 degrees.

[0057] 8 , the hinge assembly 122 may apply a bias torque of approximately −250 N·mm when the hinge assembly 122 is at a 180-degree angular position (e.g., when the device 100 is fully closed) and is closed (e.g., as the angular position of the hinge assembly 122 changes from 180 degrees toward 0 degrees). The bias torque applied by the hinge assembly 122 may increase from approximately −250 N·mm to approximately −100 N·mm when the hinge assembly 122 is closed from an angular position of approximately 180 degrees to approximately 150 degrees. The bias torque exerted by the hinge assembly 122 may be approximately −100 N·mm when the hinge assembly 122 is closed from an angular position of approximately 150 degrees to 30 degrees. The bias torque applied by the hinge assembly 122 may increase from approximately −100 N·mm to approximately 0 N·mm when the hinge assembly 122 is closed to an angular position of approximately 0 degrees.

[0058] The following numbered examples may illustrate one or more aspects of the present disclosure. [Example]

[0059] Example 1: A folding device includes a continuous display, a hinge assembly defining a first hinge axis, and a second torque arm mechanically coupled to the second torque member that rotates about the first shaft axis and slides relative to the first hinge arm assembly, the second torque arm including a second hinge axis, the second torque arm configured to rotate about the second shaft axis and slide relative to the second hinge arm assembly.

[0060] Example 2: The folding device of example 1, wherein a cross section of the hinge assembly is flush with a longitudinal cross section of the continuous display when the continuous display is fully unfolded.

[0061] Example 3: The folding device of Example 1 or 2 further includes a first support plate connected to the first hinge arm assembly, a first bias member connected to the first support plate and configured to facilitate articulation of the first support plate relative to the first hinge assembly, a second support plate connected to the second hinge arm assembly, and a second bias member connected to the second support plate and configured to facilitate articulation of the second support plate relative to the second hinge assembly.

[0062] Example 4: The folding device of example 3, wherein the first bias member includes a first spring-loaded pin and the second bias member includes a second spring-loaded pin.

[0063] Example 5: A folding device described in any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the hinge assembly includes a first hinge gear configured to rotate around the first hinge axis and a second hinge gear configured to rotate around the second hinge axis, and the first gear is configured to mesh with the second gear to synchronize movement of the first hinge arm assembly and the second hinge arm assembly.

[0064] Example 6: A folding device described in Example 5, wherein the hinge assembly includes a first auxiliary gear and a second auxiliary gear, the first auxiliary gear configured to mesh with the first hinge gear and the second auxiliary gear to synchronize the movement of the first hinge arm assembly and the second hinge arm assembly, and the second auxiliary gear configured to mesh with the second hinge gear and the first auxiliary gear to synchronize the movement of the first hinge arm assembly and the second hinge arm assembly.

[0065] Example 7: A folding device described in any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the first torque member includes a first spring and the second torque member includes a second spring.

[0066] Example 8: A folding device described in any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein the first shaft is permanently attached to a first side wall defined by the barrel, and the second shaft is permanently attached to a second side wall defined by the barrel.

[0067] Example 9: A folding device described in any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the hinge assembly includes a barrel cap permanently attached to the barrel.

[0068] Example 10: A foldable device according to any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the continuous display comprises an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display or a micro-light-emitting diode display.

[0069] Various aspects are described in this disclosure. These and other aspects are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. 1. A folding device, comprising: Continuous display and a hinge assembly defining a first hinge axis and a second hinge axis and comprising a barrel; a first hinge arm assembly rotatably connected to the hinge assembly about the first hinge axis; a second hinge arm assembly rotatably connected to the hinge assembly about the second hinge axis; a first shaft defining a first shaft axis and connected to the barrel; a second shaft defining a second shaft axis and connected to the barrel; a first torque member attached to the first shaft and configured to apply a first bias torque about the first shaft axis; a second torque member attached to the second shaft and configured to apply a second bias torque about the second shaft axis; a first torque arm mechanically coupled to the first torque member, the first torque arm comprising: Rotating about the first shaft axis, the folding device is configured to slide relative to the first hinge arm assembly, and the folding device further comprises: a second torque arm mechanically coupled to the second torque member, the second torque arm comprising: Rotating about the second shaft axis, configured to slide relative to the second hinge arm assembly; Folding device.

2. The folding device of claim 1 , wherein a cross section of the hinge assembly is flush with a longitudinal section of the continuous display when the continuous display is fully unfolded.

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

4. The folding device of claim 3 , wherein the first bias member comprises a first spring-loaded pin and the second bias member comprises a second spring-loaded pin.

5. The hinge assembly includes: a first hinge gear configured to rotate about the first hinge axis; and a second hinge gear configured to rotate about the second hinge axis, the first gear configured to mesh with the second gear to synchronize movement of the first hinge arm assembly and the second hinge arm assembly.

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

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

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

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

10. 10. The folding device of claim 1, wherein the continuous display comprises an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display or a micro light emitting diode display.

Images