Foldable portable display device

Abstract

In one example, a folding device includes a first assembly, a second assembly, a continuous display having a primary flexible segment, a hinge assembly rotatably connected to the first assembly about a first axis and to the second assembly about a second axis, such that when the folding device is fully opened about the hinge assembly, an inner surface of the first assembly is substantially coplanar with an inner surface of the second assembly, a first foldable support platform attached to the first assembly and configured to articulate against a first edge of the hinge assembly to support the primary flexible segment when the folding device is fully open, and a second foldable support platform attached to the second assembly and configured to articulate against a second edge of the hinge assembly to support at least the primary flexible segment when the folding device is fully open.

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] background A device that includes a display may be referred to as a display device. In general, it may be desirable to increase the size of the display (e.g., the area on which an image is displayed) as much as possible. Increasing the size of the display may result in the device including the display becoming larger and more cumbersome. For example, a device with a larger display may not fit neatly in a pocket, bag, and the like. 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).

[0002] However, folding displays can develop creases where the display bends. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] overview In general, aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a folding device that includes a span-supported foldable continuous display. The folding device can include at least two assemblies (e.g., panels) and a mechanism configured to place the assemblies in 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 can be viewed and can cover at least a portion of the interior surfaces of all the assemblies. The device can thus 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 can include a display with a relatively large length and / or width (e.g., display area) without unduly increasing the length and / or width of the device when in the folded state. In this manner, the "pocketability" of large screen portable devices can be improved.

[0004] However, in some instances, some designs for mechanisms that can move the assembly may result in one or more drawbacks. For example, some designs may result in a large portion of the display being unsupported or inadequately supported when the device is in an unfolded state. The unsupported or inadequately supported portion of the display may be a span in the display (i.e., the primary flexible segment of the display connecting each of the halves of the folding device). A variety of factors, including lack of sufficient support and repeated bending, may cause creases to form in the span. Such creases may result in undesirable visual appearances and / or undesirable haptic feedback, making such creases potentially undesirable. The visual appearance and haptic feedback provided by the creases may be clearly correlated with the depth of the crease. Thus, it may be desirable to minimize the depth of the crease. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The folding device may include a foldable support platform configured to provide support for a span of the continuous display of the folding device (e.g., a portion of the display between the main assemblies of the folding device). As the folding device transitions from a closed state to an open state, the foldable support platform may unfold to support the span of the continuous display. Similarly, as the folding device transitions from an open state to a closed state, the foldable support platform may be stowed (e.g., retracted) to allow the folding device to be more fully closed.

[0006] However, in some examples, some designs for the deployment mechanism of the foldable support platform may result in one or more shortcomings. For example, some deployment mechanisms may include a lever arm (e.g., a pin that is cammed against the axis of rotation of the folding device) that raises / lowers the foldable support platform. Such lever arms may experience various failures, such as bending or breaking.

[0007] According to one or more aspects of the present disclosure, the folding device can include a folding support platform that unfolds by pivoting on a hinge barrel of the folding device. For example, as the folding device transitions from closed to open, the folding support platform can contact an edge of the hinge barrel. The edge can continue to push the folding support platform upward until the platform presses against a lower surface of the continuous display or a rigid member of the continuous display. In this manner, the folding device can include a simpler and / or less expensive unfolding mechanism.

[0008] In one example, a folding device includes a first assembly having an inner surface and an outer surface, a second assembly having an inner surface and an outer surface, a continuous display with a primary flexible segment, a hinge assembly rotatably connected to the first assembly about a first axis and to the second assembly about a second axis, where an inner surface of the first assembly is substantially coplanar with an inner surface of the second assembly when the folding device is fully open about the hinge assembly, a first foldable support platform attached to the first assembly and configured to articulate against a first edge of the hinge assembly to support the primary flexible segment when the folding device is fully open, and a second foldable support platform attached to the second assembly and configured to articulate against a second edge of the hinge assembly to support at least the primary flexible segment when the folding device is fully open.

[0009] 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 description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1A] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a cross-section of a folding device having a multiple rigid segment flexible display according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 1B] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a cross-section of a folding device having a multiple rigid segment flexible display according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a folding device having multiple folded flexible displays according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exploded view of components of a folding device having a flexible display with a support platform, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4A] 1A-1C are schematic diagrams illustrating cross sections of a folding device having a flexible display with support platforms in various positions, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4B] 1A-1C are schematic diagrams illustrating cross sections of a folding device having a flexible display with support platforms in various positions, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5A] 1A-1C are schematic diagrams illustrating cross sections of a folding device having a flexible display with support platforms in various positions, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] 1A-1C are schematic diagrams illustrating cross sections of a folding device having a flexible display with support platforms in various positions, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a folding device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7A] 1A-1C are schematic diagrams illustrating cross sections of a folding device having a flexible display with support platforms in various positions, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7B] 1A-1C are schematic diagrams illustrating cross sections of a folding device having a flexible display with support platforms in various positions, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7C] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a cutaway view of a folding device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Detailed Description 1A is a schematic diagram illustrating a cross-section of a foldable device having a multiple rigid segment flexible display according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Examples of device 100 include foldable mobile computing devices such as foldable smartphones, foldable tablets, foldable electronic readers, foldable gaming systems, or any other foldable portable device that includes a display.

[0012] As shown in FIG. 1A, the device 100 includes a first assembly 102, a second assembly 104, a continuous display 106, and a hinge assembly 122. The first assembly 102 can be configured to rotate about a first axis 116A defining a first axis in the y-direction, and the second assembly 104 can be configured to rotate about a second axis 116B defining a second axis in the y-direction. Each of the first assembly 102 and the second assembly 104 can include an interior surface and an exterior surface. When looking down on the device 100 along the z-axis, the exterior surface of the first assembly 102 can be seen, and when looking up on the device 100 along the z-axis, the exterior surface of the second assembly 104 can be seen. The interior surfaces of the first assembly 102 and the second assembly 104 are not visible from the outside when the device 100 is closed.

[0013] 1A, the first assembly 102 can include a main logic board 134, and the second assembly 104 can include a battery 136. This is merely one example arrangement of components between the first assembly 102 / second assembly 104, and other arrangements are possible. For example, both the first assembly 102 and the second assembly 104 can include respective batteries.

[0014] The continuous display 106 can render data into an image viewable by a user of the device 100. For example, the continuous display 106 can include a matrix of pixels that can be individually controlled. Examples of the 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 a similar monochromatic or color display that can output visual information to a user of the device 100.

[0015] In some examples, device 100 can include one or more displays in addition to continuous display 106. For example, as shown in FIG. 1A, device 100 can include a first additional display on an exterior surface of first assembly 302 (e.g., display 198). In some examples, device 100 can further include a second additional display on an exterior surface of second assembly 104.

[0016] One or more of the continuous display 106, the first additional display, and / or the second additional display may be a presence-responsive display. In some examples, the presence-responsive display can detect an object in front of and / or near the screen. As one exemplary range, the presence-responsive display can detect an object, such as a finger or stylus, present within 2 inches of the screen. The presence-responsive display can determine the location on the screen (e.g., (x, y) coordinates) where the object is detected. In another exemplary range, the presence-responsive display can detect an object within 6 inches of the screen, and other ranges are possible. The presence-responsive display can determine the location on the screen selected by the user's finger using capacitive, inductive, and / or optical recognition techniques. In some examples, the presence-responsive display also provides output to the user using tactile, audio, or video stimuli.

[0017] The continuous display 106 includes a first rigid segment 110 attached to the first assembly 102 (e.g., disposed on an inner surface of the first assembly 102 and coplanar 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 an inner surface of the second assembly 104 and coplanar with the inner surface of the first assembly 102). As can be seen from the example of FIG. 1, the flexible segment 108 further 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 open, the rigid segment 124 can be coplanar with the inner surface of the first assembly 102, and the rigid segment 126 can be coplanar with the inner surface of the second assembly 104. When device 100 is fully closed, however, rigid segment 124 cannot be coplanar with an interior surface of first assembly 102, and rigid segment 126 cannot be coplanar with an interior surface of second assembly 104. Rigid segment 124 can be articulated to rigid segment 110 at hinge point 130. Rigid segment 126 can be articulated to rigid segment 112 at hinge point 132.

[0018] Rigid segments 110 and 112 may be referred to as primary rigid segments, while rigid segments 124 and 126 may be referred to as secondary rigid segments. In some examples, the width (e.g., in the x-direction) of the primary rigid segments may be substantially wider than the width of the secondary rigid segments. For example, the width of rigid segment 124 may be less than or equal to one-quarter (25%) of the width of rigid segment 110. Similarly, the width of rigid segment 126 may be less than or equal to one-quarter (25%) of the width of rigid segment 112.

[0019] The secondary rigid segments can be articulated to adjacent primary rigid segments. As an example, rigid segment 124 can be articulated to rigid segment 110 at hinge point 130. As another example, rigid segment 126 can be articulated to rigid segment 112 at hinge point 132. In some examples, the articulation connection points between the secondary rigid segments and the primary rigid segments (e.g., hinge points 130 and 132) can have a large radius and limited movement compared to the radius and movement of the primary flexible segment 108. As an example, rigid segment 124 can be configured to articulate to rigid segment 110 at up to 45 degrees. As another example, rigid segment 126 can be configured to articulate to rigid segment 112 at up to 45 degrees.

[0020] The primary flexible segment 108 may connect a rigid segment on one side of the device 100 to a rigid segment on the other side of the device 100. For example, as shown in Figure 1, the primary flexible segment 108 may connect the rigid segment 124 to the rigid segment 126. The primary flexible segment 108 may be configured to fold at least 180 degrees (e.g., to allow the device 100 to be easily closed).

[0021] The device 100 can include one or more support plates (e.g., backer plates) configured to make the segments of the continuous display 106 flexible or rigid. The support plates can be disposed between the emissive elements of the continuous display 106 (e.g., OLED) and the interior surfaces of the first assembly 102 and the second assembly 104.

[0022] 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.

[0023] In some examples, the one or more support plates can 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 can include a first support plate attached to the first rigid segment 110 and the rigid segment 124 configured to allow flexure 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 flexure between the second rigid segment 112 and the rigid segment 126.

[0024] In some examples, the one or more support plates can include a single support plate attached to segments of the continuous display 106 on both the first assembly 102 and the second assembly 104. For example, the one or more support plates can 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 for bending between the segments. To allow for bending between the segments, the support plate can be etched and / or perforated at the boundaries between adjacent segments.

[0025] 1B is a schematic diagram illustrating a cross-section of a folding device having a multiple rigid segment flexible display including multiple secondary rigid segments, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1B, display 106 can include primary rigid segments 110 and 112, primary flexible segment 108, and secondary rigid segments 124 and 126.

[0026] In some examples, the hinge assembly 122 can include a cavity into which at least a portion of the display 106 can retract when the device 100 is fully closed. For example, as discussed in more detail below, a central region of the hinge assembly 122 can be "hollowed out" to receive at least a portion of the primary flexible segment 108. As shown in FIG. 1B, when the folding device 100 is fully closed, the apex of the primary flexible segment (e.g., the apex 109 of the primary flexible segment 108) is closer to the exterior surface of the hinge assembly (e.g., the exterior surface 123 of the hinge assembly 122) than to a plane parallel to the first and second axes (e.g., the plane 150 parallel to the first and second axes 116A and 116B). By retracting at least a portion of the display 106 when the device 100 is fully closed, the device 100 can avoid the need for a rotating and sliding mechanism. In this manner, the design of the folding display device can be simplified.

[0027] 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a folding device having multiple flexible displays in a folded state according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As can be seen in FIG. 2, at least a portion of the primary flexible segment of the display resides within the hinge assembly while the folding device is closed. As also shown in FIG. 2, when the folding device is fully open, the inner surface of the first assembly is substantially coplanar with the inner surface of the second assembly (e.g., such that the continuous display across the first and second assemblies is flat or nearly flat).

[0028] 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exploded view of components of a folding device having a flexible display with a support platform according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As discussed above, a folding device can include one or more foldable support platforms that support the display of the folding device 300. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the folding device 300 can include foldable support platforms 382 and 384. Members 382 and 384 can each be a unitary rigid member. Thus, although referred to as foldable support platforms, members 384 and 384 can be considered foldable in that they unfold (e.g., when folding device 300 is opened) and retract (e.g., when folding device 300 is closed).

[0029] For example, the foldable support platform 382 can be included in the first assembly 302 and can support a portion of the continuous display (e.g., at least a portion of the secondary rigid segment 124 and / or the primary flexible segment 108) when the device 300 is fully open. Similarly, the foldable support platform 384 can be included in the second assembly 304 and can support a portion of the continuous display (e.g., at least a portion of the secondary rigid segment 126 and / or the primary flexible segment 108) when the device 300 is fully open.

[0030] A folding device, such as device 300, can include a component 352 configured to operate the folding support platform 382 / 384. For example, when device 300 moves from a fully closed state to a fully open state, component 352 can deploy the folding support platform 382 / 384. Similarly, when device 300 moves from a fully open state to a fully closed state, component 352 can retract the folding support platform 382 / 384. In this manner, when device 300 is closed, component 352 can retract the folding support platform 382 / 384 such that a portion of display 306 can reside within a hinge assembly, such as hinge assembly 122.

[0031] As shown in the example of FIG. 3, components 352 can include shaft clip 353, lever arms 354A and 354B (collectively "lever arms 354"), lever knobs 355A and 355B (collectively "lever knobs 355"), clamp stop 356, auxiliary gear 357, cap bracket 358, and movable arm assemblies 359A and 359B (collectively "movable arm assemblies 359"). As shown in FIG. 3, movable arm assemblies 359 can each include a pin onto which other components can be mounted. For example, movable arm assembly 359A can include pin 360A onto which at least lever knob 355A and lever arm 354A can be mounted, and movable arm assembly 359B can include pin 360B onto which at least lever knob 355B and lever arm 354B can be mounted. Pin 360A can be centered about a first axis, such as first axis 116A. The pin 360B can be centered about a second axis, such as the second axis 116B.

[0032] As device 300 moves between the open and closed positions, lever knobs 355 can remain fixed on their respective axes. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the external geometry of pin 360A and the internal geometry of lever knob 355A can prevent lever knob 355A from rotating about pin 360A. Similarly, the external geometry of pin 360B and the internal geometry of lever knob 355B can prevent lever knob 355B from rotating about pin 360B. Because pin 360 is attached to the first and second assemblies, respectively (e.g., via movable arm assembly 359), such a configuration causes lever knob 355 to rotate in synchronism with the first and second assemblies, respectively.

[0033] At a particular point in the closed to open transition (e.g., 155 degrees), attachment of lever knob 355 may cause lever arm 354 to rotate. Rotation of lever arm 354 may cause foldable support platforms 382 / 384 to unfold. For example, rotation of lever arm 354A may push foldable support platform 384 up toward the rear surface of a display (e.g., display 106). Similarly, rotation of lever arm 354B may push foldable support platform 382 up toward the rear surface of the display.

[0034] As shown in FIGURE 3, each of the foldable support platforms 382 / 384 can each include a pin configured to mate with a hole in a movable arm assembly of the movable arm assembly 359. For example, the foldable support platform 382 can include a pin 361A configured to mate with a hole 362A in the movable arm assembly 359A. Similarly, the foldable support platform 384 can include a pin 361B configured to mate with a hole 362B in the movable arm assembly 359B. Although only one end of the foldable support platforms 382 / 384 is shown in FIGURE 3, it is understood that the other end of the foldable support platforms 382 / 384 can also include a pin similar to pin 361A / 361B.

[0035] Foldable support platforms 382 / 384 can be configured to rotate about pins 361A / 361B when pushed by lever arm 354. For example, to push foldable support platform 382 toward the rear surface of the display, lever arm 354B can rotate foldable support platform 382A about pin 361A. Similarly, to push foldable support platform 384 toward the rear surface of the display, lever arm 354A can rotate foldable support platform 384 about pin 361B.

[0036] 4A and 4B are schematic diagrams illustrating cross-sections of a folding device having a flexible display with support platforms at various positions according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B, the folding device 400 can include a first assembly 402, a second assembly 404, a continuous display 406, and a hinge assembly 422. The folding device 400, the first assembly 402, the second assembly 404, the continuous display 406, and the hinge assembly 422 of FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B can be examples of the folding device 100, the first assembly 102, the second assembly 104, the continuous display 106, and the hinge assembly 122 of FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B. The folding device 400 can also include lever arms 454A and 454B (collectively "lever arms 454") and foldable support platforms 482 / 484. 3. Lever arm 454 and collapsible support platform 482 / 484 of FIG. 4 may be an example of lever arm 354 and collapsible support platform 382 / 384 of FIG.

[0037] As discussed above, the folding device can include a lever arm that moves to deploy the foldable support platform. For example, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the lever arm 454 can deploy the foldable support platforms 482 and 484. Such a structure can result in one or more drawbacks. For example, the lever arm 454 can experience various failures, such as bending or breaking. Failure of the lever arm 454 can result in incomplete deployment of the foldable support platforms 482 and 484, which is undesirable.

[0038] 5A and 5B are schematic diagrams showing cross-sections of a folding device having a flexible display with support platforms in various positions according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The folding device 500 may be an example of the device 100 discussed above. FIG. 5A shows the folding device 500 in a fully open position. For illustrative purposes, FIG. 5B shows the folding device in a one-side open / one-side closed position, although such a position may not be possible in practice (e.g., the first assembly and the second assembly may be synchronized to maintain the same relative orientation with respect to the hinge assembly). As shown in FIG. 5A and 5B, the folding device 500 includes a first assembly 502, a second assembly 504, a hinge assembly 522, a continuous display 506, a first foldable support platform 582, and a second foldable support platform 584. First assembly 502, second assembly 504, hinge assembly 522, and continuous display 506 of Figures 5A and 5B may be examples of first assembly 102, second assembly 104, hinge assembly 122, and continuous display 106 of Figures 1A and 1B. Similarly, primary flexible segment 508 may be an example of primary flexible segment 108 of Figure 1.

[0039] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the collapsible support platform 582 / 584 and the hinge assembly 522 can be configured such that as the device 500 transitions from a closed state to an open state, the collapsible support platform 582 / 584 articulates against an edge 585 / 589 of the hinge assembly 522, thereby causing the collapsible support platform 582 / 584 to unfold to support at least the primary flexible segment 508 of the continuous display 506. For example, as the device 500 transitions from a closed state to an open state, a lower surface of the collapsible support platform 582 can come into contact with the edge 585 of the hinge assembly. As the device 500 transitions closer to the open state, the foldable support platform 582 may articulate against (e.g., pivot on and / or slide over) edge 585 such that the foldable support platform 582 is pushed into an unfolded state (e.g., where an upper surface of the foldable support platform 582 provides support for (e.g., functions as a rigid backing for) the continuous display 506). Similarly, as the device 500 transitions closer to the open state, the foldable support platform 584 may articulate against (e.g., pivot on and / or slide over) edge 589 such that the foldable support platform 584 is pushed into an unfolded state (e.g., where an upper surface of the foldable support platform 584 provides support for (e.g., functions as a rigid backing for) the continuous display 506.

[0040] As discussed above, electronic components of the folding device (e.g., battery, processor, data storage, wireless transceiver, etc.) can be distributed among various assemblies. Thus, in some cases, it is desirable to provide electrical interconnection between the first assembly 502 and the second assembly 504. According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the device 500 can include a flexible printed circuit 578 configured to connect the electrical components of the first assembly 502 with the electrical components of the second assembly 504. The flexible printed circuit 578 can be routed to avoid pinching or otherwise damage while opening and closing the device 500. For example, as shown in FIG. 5B, the flexible printed circuit 578 can be routed between the folding support platform 582 / 584 and the hinge assembly 522. Any combination of the folding support platform 582 / 584 and the hinge assembly 522 can include a relief cut to accommodate the flexible printed circuit 578 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 6). The path of the flexible printed circuit 578 in the open position is designated 5780. Similarly, the path of the flexible printed circuit 578 in the closed position is designated 578C.

[0041] In general, it may be desirable for the folding support platform 582 / 584 to provide uniform support. Additionally, it may be desirable to minimize the tolerance requirements of the folding support platform 582 / 584 and the hinge assembly 522. If the folding support platform 582 / 584 and the hinge assembly 522 were formed all of metal, it may be necessary to maintain relatively close tolerances to ensure uniform support. As noted above, such close tolerances may be undesirable.

[0042] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the device 500 can include shims at bearing points between the collapsible support platform 582 / 584 and the hinge assembly 522. For example, the shim 586 can be attached to the collapsible support platform 582 (e.g., using an adhesive). The shim 586 can be configured to rest against a first edge 585 to articulate the collapsible support platform 582. Similarly, the shim 588 can be attached to the collapsible support platform 584 (e.g., using an adhesive) and can be configured to rest against a second edge 589 to articulate the collapsible support platform 584. The shims 586 and 588 can be formed of a non-metallic material, such as foam. The inclusion of the shims 586 and 588 can allow for looser tolerances for one or more of the collapsible support platform 582 / 584 and the hinge assembly 522.

[0043] In addition to or as an alternative to the shims (e.g., shims 586 and 588) between the collapsible support platform 582 / 584 and the hinge assembly 522, the device 500 may also include shims at the bearing points between the collapsible support platform 582 / 584 and the first / second assembly 502 / 504. For example, shim 574 may be attached (e.g., using an adhesive) to the first assembly 502. Shim 574 may be configured to rest against the collapsible support platform 582. Similarly, shim 576 may be attached (e.g., using an adhesive) to the second assembly 504 and may be configured to rest against the collapsible support platform 584. Shims 574 and 576 may be formed of a non-metallic material, such as foam. The inclusion of shims 574 and 576 may allow for looser tolerances for one or more of the collapsible support platform 582 / 584 and the first / second assemblies 502 / 504. Additionally or alternatively, the inclusion of shims 574 and 576 may reduce noise (e.g., squealing) generated by opening / closing device 500.

[0044] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a folding device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 6, the folding device 600 includes a first assembly 602, a second assembly 604, a hinge assembly 622, a first foldable support platform 682, and a second foldable support platform 684. The first assembly 602, the second assembly 604, the hinge assembly 622, the first foldable support platform 682, and the second foldable support platform 684 of FIG. 6 may be examples of the first assembly 502, the second assembly 504, the hinge assembly 522, the first foldable support platform 582, and the second foldable support platform 584 of FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B. As also shown in FIG. 6, the first assembly 602 can include a movable arm 659A, and the second assembly 604 can include a movable arm 659B. Movable arm 659A can rotatably connect first assembly 602 to hinge assembly 622 about a first axis (e.g., axis 116A in FIG. 1B). Similarly, movable arm 659B can rotatably connect second assembly 605 to hinge assembly 622 about a second axis (e.g., axis 116B in FIG. 1B). Movable arms 659A and 659B can be examples of movable arms 359A and 359B in FIG. 3.

[0045] As mentioned above, one advantage of articulating foldable support platforms using edges of hinge assemblies can be improved support. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the first foldable support platform 682 can be supported along substantially its entire length by the first assembly 602 (support area shown by line A) and the first edge of the hinge assembly 622 (support area shown by line B). Similarly, the second foldable support platform 684 can be supported along substantially its entire length by the second assembly 604 (support area shown by line C) and the second edge of the hinge assembly 622 (support area shown by line D).

[0046] The first foldable support platform 682 and the second foldable support platform 684 can be supported along substantially their entire length, although the combination of the foldable support platforms 682 / 684 can also include some unsupported sections. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the foldable support platforms 682 / 684 can include relief cuts 675A and / or 675B. The relief cuts 675A and / or 675B allow components such as flexible printed circuits (e.g., similar to flexible printed circuit 578) to transition between the first assembly 602 and the second assembly 604. By supporting the folding support platform 682 and the folding support platform 684 along substantially their entire length (e.g., more than 50%, 60%, 80% or their length), the rigidity of the folding support platform 682 and the folding support platform 684 can be improved so that the continuous display is less likely to deflect downward into the hinge assembly 622.

[0047] As can be seen in FIG. 6, the collapsible support platform 682 can at least contact the first edge of the first assembly 602 at multiple points along the first edge (e.g., can include a point on the first edge of the first assembly 602 at the center line M), and the collapsible support platform 684 can at least contact the second edge of the second assembly 604 at multiple points along the second edge (e.g., can include a point on the second edge of the second assembly 602 at the center line M). In this manner, the collapsible support platforms 682 and 684 can be supported at more points than just at their ends. By supporting the collapsible support platforms 682 and 684 at more points (e.g., multiple points along their length) than just at their ends, the rigidity of the collapsible support platforms 682 and 684 can be improved such that the continuous display is less likely to deflect downward into the hinge assembly 622.

[0048] 7A and 7B are schematic diagrams illustrating cross-sections of a folding device having a flexible display with support platforms in various positions according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The folding device 700 may be an example of the device 100 discussed above. FIG. 7A illustrates the folding device 700 in a fully open position. FIG. 7B illustrates the folding device 700 in a fully closed position. As shown in FIG. 7A and 7B, the folding device 700 includes a first assembly 702, a second assembly 704, a hinge assembly 722, a continuous display 706, a first foldable support platform 782, and a second foldable support platform 784. The first assembly 702, the second assembly 704, the hinge assembly 722, and the continuous display 706 of FIG. 7A and 7B may be examples of the first assembly 502, the second assembly 504, the hinge assembly 522, and the continuous display 506 of FIG. 5A and 5B. Similarly, primary flexible segment 708 may be an example of primary flexible segment 108 of FIG.

[0049] As discussed above, when the folding device is opened, the foldable support platform may unfold by contact between the foldable support platform and an edge of the hinge assembly. For example, the foldable support platform 782 / 784 may unfold by contact between the foldable support platform 782 / 784 and an edge 785 / 789 of the hinge assembly 722 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 7A ). Although the edge 785 / 789 of the hinge assembly 722 may unfold (e.g., lift, raise, etc.) the foldable support platform 782 / 784, it may be desirable in some cases to be able to easily retract (e.g., lower, fold, etc.) the foldable support platform 782 / 784 when the folding device 700 is closed.

[0050] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the device 700 can include one or more biasing members configured to bias the collapsible support platform 782 / 784 to a folded (e.g., retracted) position, such as the position shown in FIG. 7B. For example, the device 700 can include a first biasing member 777 disposed in the first assembly 702 and a second biasing member 779 disposed in the second assembly 704. The first biasing member 777 can be configured to bias the collapsible support platform 782 to the folded position, and the second biasing member 779 can be configured to bias the collapsible support platform 784 to the folded position. In some examples, the device 700 can include a single biasing member per side (e.g., one biasing member in each of the first assembly 702 and the second assembly 704). In some examples, device 700 may include multiple bias members per side (e.g., two or more bias members in each of first assembly 702 and second assembly 704). Examples of first bias member 777 and second bias member 779 include spring-loaded pins (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B), hydraulic pistons, and the like.

[0051] As mentioned above, the first bias member 777 and the second bias member 779 can each bias the collapsible support platform 782 / 784 to the retracted position. However, the force applied by the edges 785 / 789 to the collapsible support platform 782 / 784 can be sufficient to overcome the force applied by the first bias member 777 and the second bias member 779 to the collapsible support platform 782 / 784. However, when the device 700 transitions to the closed position, the first bias member 777 and the second bias member 779 can each urge the collapsible support platform 782 / 784 downward to the folded position.

[0052] 7C is a conceptual diagram illustrating a cutaway view of a folding device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 7C, the collapsible support platform 784 can include a notch or other structure configured to engage with a second biasing member 779. The second biasing member 779 can bias the collapsible support platform 784 into a folded position via this structure.

[0053] The following numbered examples may illustrate one or more aspects of the present disclosure. Example 1. A folding device comprising: a first assembly having an inner surface and an outer surface; a second assembly having an inner surface and an outer surface; a continuous display comprising a primary flexible segment; a hinge assembly rotatably connected to the first assembly about a first axis and to the second assembly about a second axis, where an inner surface of the first assembly is substantially coplanar with an inner surface of the second assembly when the folding device is fully open about the hinge assembly; a first foldable support platform attached to the first assembly and configured to articulate against a first edge of the hinge assembly to support the primary flexible segment when the folding device is fully open; and a second foldable support platform attached to the second assembly and configured to articulate against a second edge of the hinge assembly to support at least the primary flexible segment when the folding device is fully open.

[0054] Example 2. The folding device of example 1, wherein when the folding device is fully open, the first foldable support platform contacts at least half of a length of the first edge and the second foldable support platform contacts at least half of a length of the second edge.

[0055] Example 3. The folding device of example 1, wherein the first foldable support platform at least contacts the first edge at a midpoint of the first edge and the second foldable support platform at least contacts the second edge at a midpoint of the second edge.

[0056] Example 4. The folding device of example 1, further comprising a flexible printed circuit connecting electrical components of the first assembly with electrical components of the second assembly, the flexible printed circuit being routed between the first foldable support platform and the hinge assembly.

[0057] Example 5. The folding device of example 1, further comprising: a first shim attached to the first foldable support platform and configured to rest against a first edge of the hinge assembly to articulate the first foldable support platform; and a second shim attached to the second foldable support platform and configured to rest against a second edge of the hinge assembly to articulate the second foldable support platform.

[0058] Example 6. The folding device of example 1, further comprising a third shim attached to the first assembly and configured to lean against the first foldable support platform, and a fourth shim attached to the second assembly and configured to lean against the second foldable support platform.

[0059] Example 7. The folding device of example 5, wherein the first foldable support platform and the second foldable support platform are formed of a metal, and the first shim, the second shim, the third shim, and the fourth shim are formed of a non-metallic material.

[0060] Example 8. The folding device of example 7, wherein the non-metallic material is foam. Example 9. The folding device of example 1, further comprising a first biasing member configured to bias the first collapsible support platform toward the folded position and a second biasing member configured to bias the second collapsible support platform toward the folded position.

[0061] Example 10. The folding device of example 9, wherein the first bias member comprises a first spring-loaded pin and the second bias member comprises a second spring-loaded pin.

[0062] Example 11. The folding device of example 1 ,Continuous display is Organic Light Emitting Diode (O Equipped with a LED display or micro light emitting diode display.

[0063] Various aspects have been described in this disclosure. These and other aspects are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. 1. A folding device, comprising: a first assembly having an interior surface and an exterior surface; a second assembly having an interior surface and an exterior surface; a continuous display comprising a primary flexible segment; a hinge assembly rotatably connected to the first assembly about a first axis and to the second assembly about a second axis, wherein when the folding device is fully opened about the hinge assembly, the inner surface of the first assembly is substantially coplanar with the inner surface of the second assembly; a first foldable support platform attached to the first assembly and configured to articulate to a first edge of the hinge assembly to support the primary flexible segment when the folding device is fully unfolded; and a second foldable support platform attached to the second assembly and configured to articulate against a second edge of the hinge assembly to support at least the primary flexible segment when the folding device is fully unfolded; and a first shim attached to the first foldable support platform and configured to rest against the first edge of the hinge assembly to articulate the first foldable support platform; a second shim attached to the second foldable support platform and configured to rest against the second edge of the hinge assembly to articulate the second foldable support platform; and A folding device comprising:

2. the first foldable support platform and the second foldable support platform are formed of metal; The folding device of claim 1 , wherein the first shim and the second shim are formed of a non-metallic material.

3. A folding device, a first assembly having an interior surface and an exterior surface; a second assembly having an interior surface and an exterior surface; a continuous display comprising a primary flexible segment; a hinge assembly rotatably connected to the first assembly about a first axis and to the second assembly about a second axis, wherein when the folding device is fully opened about the hinge assembly, the inner surface of the first assembly is substantially coplanar with the inner surface of the second assembly; a first foldable support platform attached to the first assembly and configured to articulate to a first edge of the hinge assembly to support the primary flexible segment when the folding device is fully unfolded; and a second foldable support platform attached to the second assembly and configured to articulate against a second edge of the hinge assembly to support at least the primary flexible segment when the folding device is fully unfolded; and a first assembly shim attached to the first assembly and configured to rest against the first collapsible support platform; a second assembly shim attached to the second assembly and configured to rest against the second collapsible support platform; A folding device comprising:

4. the first foldable support platform and the second foldable support platform are formed of metal; The folding device of claim 3 , wherein the first assembly shim and the second assembly shim are formed of a non-metallic material.

5. The folding device of claim 2 or claim 4, wherein the non-metallic material is a foam.

6. A folding device as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein when the folding device is fully open, multiple points of the first foldable support platform contact the first edge of the hinge assembly and multiple points of the second foldable support platform contact the second edge of the hinge assembly.

7. 7. A folding device according to claim 1, wherein the first foldable support platform at least contacts the first edge at a midpoint of the first edge, and the second foldable support platform at least contacts the second edge at a midpoint of the second edge.

8. a flexible printed circuit connecting electrical components of the first assembly with electrical components of the second assembly; the flexible printed circuit is routed between the first foldable support platform and the hinge assembly; A folding device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. a first biasing member configured to bias the first collapsible support platform toward a collapsed position; a second biasing member configured to bias the second collapsible support platform toward a collapsed position; The folding device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising:

10. 10. The folding device of claim 9, wherein the first bias member comprises a first spring loaded pin and the second bias member comprises a second spring loaded pin.

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

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