Folding portable display device with leadscrews

Abstract

An example folding device includes a continuous display, a hinge assembly, a first assembly, and a second assembly. The hinge assembly includes a first leadscrew and a. second leadscrew with threads in opposite directions. A threaded nut defines a. first opening and a second opening, where the first opening is threaded to receive the first leadscrew, and the second opening is threaded to receive the second leadscrew. Linear movement of the threaded, nut relative to the first leadscrew along the first hinge axis causes corresponding linear movement of the threaded nut relative to the second leadscrew along the second hinge axis, which in turn rotates the first assembly relative to the second assembly.

Description

FOLDING PORTABLE DISPLAY DEVICE WITH LEADSCREWSBACKGROUND

[0001] Devices that include displays may be referred to as display devices. In general, it. may be desirable to increase a size of a display (e.g., the area on which images are displayed) as much as possible. Increasing tire size of a display may make the device that includes the display large and unwieldy. For instance, devices with larger displays may not fit in pockets, bags, and the like. One way to increase the size of a display without negatively affecting the portability of the device is to make the device collapsible such that the display can be folded (e.g., in half).SUMMARY

[0002] In general, aspects of this disclosure are directed to a hinge assembly of a folding device that synchronizes the movement of assemblies of the folding device. The assemblies of the folding device (e.g., “halves” or housings) may be moved in order to open and close the folding device. In general, it may be desirable for movement of the assemblies to be synchronized. For instance, synchronizing the movement of tire assemblies may advantageously improve structural integrity (e.g., by ensuring alignment of hinge assembly components) and user experience (e.g., a smooth, predictable opening and closing process).

[0003] In accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure, a hinge assembly of folding device may include leadscrews and a threaded nut that enable the folding device to open and close in a highly controlled fashion. The leadscrews may be configured to improve durability, smoothness, flexibility, and alignment of the hinge assembly. Such a design may provide one or more advantages. For instance, a hinge assembly in accordance with this disclosure may provide very' precise motion control, allowing for fine adjustments in positioning. In addition, the hinge assembly may be less expensive to manufacture and easier to integrate into different systems (e.g., the hinge assembly may be more modular).

[0004] An example folding device includes a continuous display, a hinge assembly, a first assembly, and a second assembly. The hinge assembly includes a first leadscrew defining a first hinge axis, wherein tire first leadscrew comprises a first shaft with threads in a first direction. The hinge assembly further includes a second leadscrew defining a secondhinge axis that is parallel to the first hinge axis, wherein the second leadscrew' comprises a second shaft with threads in a second direction, and wherein the second direction is opposite of the first direction. The hinge assembly further includes a threaded nut defining a first opening and a second opening, wherein the first opening is threaded to receive the first shaft, wherein the second opening is threaded to receive the second shaft, and wherein linear movement of the threaded nut relative to the first leadscrew along the first hinge axis causes corresponding linear movement of the threaded nut relative to the second leadscrew' along the second hinge axis. The first assembly is rotatably connected to the hinge assembly about the first hinge axis. The second assembly is rotatably connected to the hinge assembly about the first hinge axis.[001)5] 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 DRAWINGS

[0006] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a cross section of an example folding device with a multi-rigid segment flexible display, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0007] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example folding device with a flexible display in a plurality of folded states, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating components of an example hinge assembly, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating components of an example hinge assembly, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 5A-5D are cross-sectional diagrams illustrating an example hinge assembly in a plurality of states, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 5B is a schematic diagram illustrating an example folding device in a fully closed state, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 6A is a schematic diagram illustrating an example spine of a folding device, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 6B is a schematic diagram illustrating an example spine of a folding device that includes support plates, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 6C is a schematic diagram illustrating an example binge assembly coupled to the spine of a folding device, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 6D is a schematic diagram illustrating the hinge assembly of FIG. 6C in greater detail, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 6E is a schematic diagram illustrating an example hinge assembly coupled to the spine of a folding device, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 6F is a schematic diagram illustrating the hinge assembly of FIG. 6E in greater detail, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] In general, this disclosure is directed to folding devices that include foldable continuous displays with a supported span. A folding device may include at least two assemblies (e.g., panels) and a mechanism configured to allow the assemblies to be moved into a collapsed state in which the device is considered closed and an expanded state in which the device is considered open. When the device is in the expanded state, a display may be visible and may cover at least a portion of an inner surface of all of the assemblies. As such, the device may be considered to be a continuous display (i.e. , because it continues across or spans a boundary' between the assemblies). By utilizing such a folding device, the device may include a display with a relatively large length and / or width (e.g., display area) without overly increasing a length and / or width of the device when in the collapsed state. In this way, the “pocketability” of large-screen portable devices may be improved.

[0019] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a cross section of a folding device 100 with a multi-rigid segment flexible display, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure. Examples of device 100 include foldable mobile computing devices such as foldable smart phones, foldable tablets, foldable e-readers, foldable gaming systems, or any other foldable portable device that includes a display.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 1, device 100 includes a first assembly 102, second assembly 104, continuous display 106, and hinge assembly 122. Each of first assembly 102 and second assembly 104 may include an inner surface and an outer surface. The outer surface of first assembly 102 may be visible when looking down at device 100 m the z- axis and the outer surface of second assembly 104 may be visible when looking up at device 100 in the z-axis. The inner surfaces of first assembly 102 and second assembly 104 may not be externally visible when device 100 is closed.

[0021] As shown in FIG. 1 , first assembly 102 may include main logic board 134 and second assembly 104 may include battery 136. This is merely one example arrangement of components amongst first assembly 102 and / or second assembly 104; other arrangements are possible. For instance, both first assembly 102 and second assembly 104 may include respective batteries.[0022 J Continuous display 106 may be capable of rendering data into images viewable by a user of device 100. For example, continuous display 106 may include a matrix of pixels that are individually controllable. Examples of continuous display 106 include, but are not limited to, liquid crystal displays (LCD), light emitting diode (LED) displays, organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays, micro light-emitting diode (microLED) displays, or similar monochrome or color displays capable of outputting visible information to a user of device 100. Continuous display 106 may span hinge assembly 122 from first assembly 102 to second assembly 104.

[0023] In some examples, device 100 may include one or more displays in addition to continuous display 106. For instance, as shown in FIG. 1 , device 100 may include a first additional display on the outer surface of first assembly 102 (e.g., display 198). In some examples, device 100 may further include a second additional display on the outer surface of second assembly 104.

[0024] One or more of continuous display 106, the first additional display, and / or the second additional display may be presence-sensitive displays. In some examples, a presence sensitive display may detect an object at and / or near a screen. As one example range, a presence-sensitive display may detect an object, such as a finger or stylus that is within 2 inches of the screen. The presence-sensitive display may determine a location (e.g., an (x,y) coordinate) of a screen at which the object was detected. In another example range, a presence-sensitive display may detect an object within six inches of the screen. Other ranges are also possible. The presence-sensitive display may determine the location of the screen selected by a user's finger using capacitive, inductive, and / or optical recognition techniques. In some examples, presence sensitive display also provides output to a user using tactile, audio, or video stimuli.

[0025] As shown in the example of FIG. 1, continuous display 106 includes first rigid segment 110 attached to first assembly 102 (e.g., positioned on the inner surface of first assembly 102 and coplanar with the inner surface of first assembly 102), flexible segment 108, and second rigid segment 112 attached to second assembly 104 (e.g., positioned on the inner surface of second assembly 104 and coplanar with the inner surface of firstassembly 102). As further shown in the example of FIG. 1 , flexible segment 108 includes rigid segment 124 connecting rigid segment 110 to flexible segment 108 and rigid segment 126 connecting rigid segment 1 12 to flexible segment 108. When device 100 is fully open, rigid segment 124 may be coplanar with the inner surface of first assembly 102 and rigid segment 126 may be coplanar with the inner surface of second assembly- 104. However, when device 100 is fully closed, rigid segment 124 may not be coplanar with the inner surface of first assembly 102. and rigid segment 126 may not be coplanar with the mner surface of second assembly 104. Rigid segment 124 may be articulable relative to rigid segment 110 at hinge point 130. Rigid segment 126 may be articulable relative to rigid segment 112 at hinge point 132.

[0026] Rigid segments 1 10 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, a width (e.g., in the x-direction) of the primary rigid segments may be substantially larger than a width of the secondary- rigid segments. For instance, a width of rigid segment 124 may be less than or equal to a quarter (25%) of a width of rigid segment 110. Similarly, a width of rigid segment 126 may be less than or equal to a quarter (25%) of a width of rigid segment 112.

[0027] The secondary' rigid segments may be articulable relative to neighboring primary- rigid segments. As one example, rigid segment 124 may be articulable relative to rigid segment 110 at hinge point 130. As another example, rigid segment 126 may- be articulable relative to rigid segment 112 at hinge point 132. In some examples, the articulation points between secondary- rigid segments and primary rigid segments (e.g., hinge points 130 and 132) may have large radii and limited movement as compared to the radius and movement of primary flexible segment 108. As one example, rigid segment 12.4 may be configured to articulate at most 45 degrees relative to rigid segment 110. As another example, rigid segment 126 may be configured to articulate at most 45 degrees relative to rigid segment 112.

[0028] Primary- flexible segment 108 may connect the rigid segments of one side of device 100 to the rigid segments of the other side of device 100. For instance, as shown in FIG. 1, primary- flexible segment 108 may connect rigid segment 124 to rigid segment 126. Primary- flexible segment 108 may be configured to fold at least 180 degrees (e.g., to facilitate closure of device 100).

[0029] Device 100 may include one or more supporting plates (e.g., backer plates) configured to render segments of continuous display 106 flexible or rigid. Hie supportingplates may be positioned between emissive elements of continuous display 106 (e.g., OLEDs) and the inner surfaces of first assembly 102 and second assembly 104.

[0030] In some examples, device 100 may include respective supporting plates for segments of continuous display 106. For instance, the one or more supporting plates may include a first supporting plate attached to first rigid segment 110, a second supporting plate attached to second rigid segment 112, a third supporting plate attached to rigid segment 124, and / or a fourth supporting plate attached to rigid segment 126.

[0031] In some examples, the one or more supporting plates may include a respective supporting plate for each of first assembly 102 and second assembly 104 that support segments of continuous display 106 on the respective assembly. For instance, the one or more supporting plates may include a first supporting plate attached to first rigid segment 110 and rigid segment 124 that is configured to permit bending between first rigid segment 110 and rigid segment 124, and a second supporting plate attached to second rigid segment 112 and rigid segment 126 that is configured to permit bending between second rigid segment 112 and rigid segment 126.

[0032] In some examples, the one or more supporting plates may include a single supporting plate that is attached to segments of continuous display 106 on both first assembly 102 and second assembly 104. For instance, the one or more supporting plates may include a single supporting plate attached to primary flexible segment 108 and all primary and secondary rigid segments (e.g., first rigid segment 110, second rigid segment 112, rigid segment 124 and rigid segment 126). The single supporting plate may be configured to permit bending between the segments. To permit bending between segments, a supporting plate may be etched and / or perforated at a boundary between adjacent segments.

[0033] In general, hinge assembly 12.2 may be relatively complex and expensive. For example, hinge assembly 122 may include multiple components, such as gears, springs, and bearings, that need to conform to precise specifications to ensure that hinge assembly 122 functions properly. Additionally, hinge assembly 122. may be susceptible to damage. For example, dirt, dust, and other debris can accumulate in hinge assembly 122, causing it to become stiff or difficult to move. Hinge assembly 122 may also experience wear and tear due to repeated use, causing hinge assembly 122 to become loose, wobbly, or misaligned. Misalignment of hinge assembly 122 may lead to damage to display 106 or other components of device 100.

[0034] In accordance with aspects of this disclosure, hinge assembly 122 of device 100 may include ieadscrews and a threaded nut that enable the folding device to open and close in a highly controlled fashion. The Ieadscrews may be configured to improve durability, operation, and alignment of the hinge assembly. For example, a hinge assembly in accordance with the aspects of this disclosure may provide very precise motion control, allowing for fine adjustments in positioning. In addition, the hinge assembly may be less expensive to manufacture and easier to integrate into different systems (e.g., the hinge assembly may be more modular).

[0035] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a folding device 200 with a flexible continuous display 206 in a plurality of folded states, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure. Device 200 may be an example of device 100 shown in FIG, 1. Similarly, first assembly 202 and second assembly 204 of FIG. 2 may be examples of first assembly 102 and second assembly 104 of FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 2, a portion of display 206 resides within a hinge assembly 222 while device 200 is closed, e.g., a collapsed state 207A. As further shown in FIG. 2, when folding device 200 is fully open, e.g., an expanded state 207B, an inner surface of a first assembly 202 is coplanar with an inner surface of a second assembly 204.

[0036] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating components of a hinge assembly 322, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure. Hinge assembly 322 may be an example of hinge assembly 122 shown in FIG. 1. In some instances, and for example purposes only, FIG.3 is discussed with respect to first assembly 202 and second assembly 204 of FIG. 2.

[0037] Hinge assembly 322 may include a first leadscrew 340A that defines a first hinge axis 342A and a second leadscrew 340B that defines a second hinge axis 342B. First hinge axis 342A may be parallel to second hinge axis 342B. First leadscrew 340A may include a first shaft 344A with threads in a first direction. Second leadscrew 340B may include a second shaft 344B with threads in a second direction, where the second direction is opposite of the first direction. In all other respects, first leadscrew 340A and second leadscrew7340B may be identical. For example, the diameter of first leadscrew7340A may be the same as the diameter of second leadscrew7340B, the pitch of the threads of first shaft 344A may be the same as the pitch of the threads of second shaft 344B, etc.

[0038] A first assembly, such as first assembly 202 of FIG. 2, may be rotatably connected to hinge assembly 322 about first hinge axis 342A. For example, first assembly 202 may be rotatably connected to first arm assembly 346A, which may in turn be rotatablyconnected to first hinge axis 342A. A second assembly, such as second assembly 204 of FIG. 2, may be rotatably connected to hinge assembly 322 about second hinge axis 342B. For example, second assembly 204 may be rotatably connected to second ann assembly 346B, which may in turn be rotatably connected to second hinge axis 342B. First assembly 202 and second assembly 204 may be configured to rotate about first hinge axis 342A and second hinge axis 342B, respectively, to move device 200 into one of expanded state 207B or collapsed state 207A.

[0039] Hinge assembly 322 may further comprise a threaded nut 348 (“nut 348”). Nut 348 may be configured to synchronize movement of first assembly 202 and second assembly 204 as device 200 is moved between expanded state 207B and collapsed state 207A. As used herein, synchronizing the movement of first assembly 2.02 and second assembly 204 may involve first assembly 202 and second assembly 204 moving together in a coordinated and balanced manner, thereby maintaining alignment throughout the opening and closing process (e.g., as the device is moved from the “Fully open” to the “Fully closed” states shown in FIG. 2). For example, movement of first assembly 202 and second assembly 204 may be synchronized if the rotation angle of first assembly 202 about first hinge axis 342A is equal to a rotation angle of second assembly 204 about second hinge axis 342.B.

[0040] In some examples, nut 348 may be coupled to both first leadscrew 340A and second leadscrew 340B to synchronize the movement of first assembly 302 and second assembly 304. For example, nut 348 may define a first opening 350A and a second opening 350B. First opening 350A may be threaded (e.g., define threads) to receive first shaft 344A. In other words, the internal threads of first opening 350A match the threads of first shaft 344A. Similarly, second opening 350B may be threaded to receive second shaft 344B.

[0041] When hinge assembly 322 rotates (e.g., hinge assembly 322 opens or closes), one or more of first leadscrew 340A or second leadscrew 340B may rotate. As an example, when hinge assembly 322. is opened or closed, first leadscrew 340A may rotate. As a result, the threads of first shaft 344A may force nut 348 along the length of first leadscrew 340A, e.g., in a first direction (DI) or a second direction (D2). When nut 348 moves along the length of first shaft 344A, nut 348 may move along the length of second shaft 344B due to nut 348 being coupled to both first leadscrew 340A and second leadscrew 340B. In some examples, when nut 348 moves in the direction of D I, hinge assembly 322 may open (e.g., device 200 may transition to expanded state 207B). In thesame example, when nut 348 moves in the direction of D2, hinge assembly 322 may close (e.g., device 200 may transition to collapsed state 207 A). Other examples are contemplated by this disclosure.

[0042] Tims, linear movement of nut 348 relative to first leadscrew 340A along first hinge axis 342A may cause corresponding linear movement of nut 348 relative to second leadscrew 340B along second hinge axis 342B. lire linear movement of nut 348 relative to second leadscrew 340B may cause corresponding rotation of second leadscrew 340B, thereby synchronizing the rotation of first leadscrew' 340A and second leadscrew' 340B (and in turn the rotation of first assembly 202 and second assembly 204). In this way, aspects of this disclosure may improve the feeling, open-close force advantages, etc., of hinge assembly 322.

[0043] In some examples, hinge assembly 322 may include one or more elastic elements, such as a first elastic element 352A and a second elastic element 352B (collectively, ‘"elastic elements 352”), coupled to nut 348. In some examples, elastic elements 352 may also be coupled to a spring bracket 353. Elastic elements 352 may be configured to reduce backlash (e.g., a gap, looseness, play) between nut 348 and at least one of first shaft 344A or second shaft 344B. For example, elastic elements 352 may be a spring that applies a continuous force to maintain contact between the threads of nut 348 and one or more of first shaft 344A or second shaft 344B, thereby reducing the play or gap between nut 348 and one or more of first shaft 344A or second shaft 344B that causes backlash.

[0044] The aspects of this disclosure may include various advantages. For example, a hinge assembly in accordance with the aspects may be thinner, contributing to a more compact overall device when folded. This form factor may be important for portability and convenience, as it allows a folding device to easily fit into pockets, bags, or smaller compartments. A thinner hinge assembly may also contribute to reducing the visible border or bezel around the device s display when the display is in the expanded state. This reduction in bezel size may be due to the thinner hinge assembly occupying less space, reducing the need for a wide bezel to accommodate the hinge. Furthermore, a slimmer hinge may allow' the inner surfaces of first assembly and the second assembly of the device to come closer together (e.g., near flexible segment 108 shown in FIG. 1) when the device is folded, which again may facilitate a more compact overall device.

[0045] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating components of a hinge assembly 422, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure. Hinge assembly 422 may be anexample of hinge assembly 122 shown in FIG. 1. In some instances, and for example purposes only, FIG.3 is discussed with respect to FIG. 2.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 4, hinge assembly 422 may include two or more threaded nuts, such as a first threaded nut 448A and a second threaded nut 448B (collectively, "‘nuts 448”). First threaded nut 448A may be identical to second threaded nut 448B. For example, first threaded nut 448A may define a first opening 450A that is threaded to receive a first shaft 444A of a first leadscrew 440A, and second threaded nut 448B may define a third opening 450C that is threaded to receive first shaft 444A. Similarly, first threaded nut 448A may define a second opening 450B that is threaded to receive a second shaft 444B of a second leadscrew 440B, and second threaded nut 448B may define a fourth opening 450D that is threaded to receive second shaft 444B. Linear movement of nuts 448 relative to first leadscrew 440A may cause corresponding linear movement of nuts 448 relative to second leadscrew 440B.

[0047] Nuts 448 may be spaced apart but coupled together by one or more elastic elements, such as a first elastic element 452 A and a second elastic element 452B (collectively, “elastic elements 452”). Elastic elements 452 may force nuts 448 against first shaft 444A and second shaft 444B. For example, elastic elements 452 may force first threaded nut 448A against one side of the threads of first shaft 444A and second shaft 444B, and elastic elements 452 may force second threaded nut 448B against the opposite side of the threads of first shaft 444A and second shaft 444B. By keeping nuts 448 m constant contact with the threads of first shaft 444A and second shaft 444B, elastic elements 452 may effectively eliminate the gap that causes backlash, leading to more accurate and reliable motion control (e.g., improved synchronization between first assembly 202 and second assembly 204).[ 00481 FIGS. 5A-5D are cross-sectional diagrams illustrating a hinge assembly 52.2 in a plurality of states in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure. Specifically, FIGS. 5A and 5D illustrate hinge assembly 522 m a fully open or expanded state, and FIGS. 5B and 5C illustrate hinge assembly 52.2. in a fully closed or collapsed state. Hinge assembly 522 may be an example of hinge assembly 122 shown in FIG. 1.

[0049] In general, hinge assembly 522 may have a force curve. As used herein, a force may refer to the amount of force required to open or close hinge assembly 522. lire amount of force required may depend on the state of hinge assembly 522. (e.g., an angle between first / second assemblies attached to hinge assembly 522). In other -words, the force required to open or close hinge assembly 522 may vary as a function (e.g., a linearfunction, a non-linear function, etc.) of the rotation angle (e.g., degree of folding or unfolding) of hinge assembly 522.

[0050] Hinge assembly 522 may include elements configured to modify the force curve of hinge assembly 522 to achieve a desired user experience. For example, hinge assembly 522 may be configured to require an appropriate amount offeree at each stage of the opening or closing process. In some examples, hinge assembly 522 may include one or more biasing elements (“biasing element 554”) that advantageously modify the force curve. In some examples, biasing element 554 may be configured to modify the force curve by resisting linear movement of one or more threaded nuts 548, such as a first threaded nut 548A and a second threaded nut 548B (collectively, “nuts 548”) relative to a first leadscrew 540A and corresponding linear movement of nuts 548 relative to a second leadscrew 540B (not shown). In this way, biasing element 554 may modify the amount of force required to open and close hinge assembly 522 (e.g., because linear movement of nuts 548 facilitates rotation of hinge assembly 522 and vice versa) at certain rotation angles.

[0051] In some examples, biasing element 554 may define a protrusion, such as a bump or wedge. However, other examples of biasing elements are contemplated by this disclosure. In some examples, biasing element 554 may be configured to exert a force on at least one of nuts 548 that resists linear movement of nuts 548 relative to first leadscrew' 540A and corresponding linear movement of nuts 548 relati ve to second leadscrew 540B when hinge assembly 522 is in an expanded state.

[0052] In other examples, biasing element 554 may be configured to exert a force on at least one of nuts 548 that resists linear movement of nuts 548 relative to first leadscrew' 540A and corresponding linear movement of nuts 548 relative to second leadscrew 540B when hinge assembly 522 is in a collapsed state. In any case, the force exerted by biasing element 554 may be a linear or non-linear function of a rotation angle of hinge assembly- 522. For example, biasing element 554 may exert a force that changes non-linearly (e.g., not at a constant rate) depending on the rotation angle of hinge assembly 522. This may be at least in part due to biasing element 554 exerting the force on nuts 548 over a subset of the rotation angles.

[0053] As an example, biasing element 554 may “lock” (or block) nut 548 to prevent nut 548 from moving when hinge assembly 522 is in an expanded state. If a user applies a sufficient amount of force to close hinge assembly 522 (e.g., to collapse the device), then biasing element 544 may “unlock” (or release) nut 548 and allow nut 548 to move. Thus,the force exerted by biasing element 554 may, in some examples, change in a step-wise fashion (which is not a strictly linear function).[00S4] In the example of FIGS, 5 A and 5B, which illustrate hinge assembly 522 with one nut 548, elastic element 552 may exert a force that biases hinge assembly 522 toward a collapsed state. Biasing element 554 may be configured to resist elastic element 552 when hinge assembly 522 is m an expanded state, thereby helping maintain hinge assembly 522 m an expanded state.

[0055] For example, as shown in FIG. 5A, a (sloped) surface of biasing element 554 may exert a force (e.g., friction) that resists expansion of elastic element 552A (e.g., from a compressed state of elastic element 552A to an undeformed state of elastic element 552A) and in turn linear movement of nut 548A. Thus, biasing element 554 may help maintain hinge assembly 522 in an expanded state. In the example of FIG. 5 A, biasing element 554 may be engaged when helping maintain hinge assembly 522 in an expanded state.

[0056] When hinge assembly 522 is in a collapsed state (e.g., as shown in FIG, 5B), biasing element 554 may no longer exert a force (or at least not a significant force) that promotes the opening of hinge assembly 522. For example, biasing element 554 may be disengaged and in turn no longer resist elastic element 552A. Elastic element 552A may (continuously) exert a force that helps maintain hinge assembly 522 in the collapsed state. Consequently, whether hinge assembly 522 is in a collapsed state or an expanded state, hinge assembly 522 may be in a stable configuration due to the interaction between at least elastic element 552.A and biasing element 554.

[0057] In the example of FIGS. 5C and 5D, which illustrate hinge assembly 522 with nuts 548, biasing element 554 may be configured to help maintain hinge assembly 522 in a collapsed state. For example, as shown in FIG. 5C, a (sloped) surface of biasing element 554 may exert a force (e.g., friction) that resists linear movement of nuts 548. Thus, biasing element 554 may help maintain hinge assembly 522 in a collapsed state. In the example of FIG. 5C, biasing element 554 may be engaged wfhen helping maintain hinge assembly 522 in the collapsed state.

[0058] When hinge assembly 522 is in an expanded state (e.g., as shown in FIG. 5D), biasing element 554 may no longer exert a force (or at least not a significant force) that promotes the closing of hinge assembly 522. For example, biasing element 554 may be disengaged and either not exerting a force on nuts 548 or exerting a force in the direction of the linear movement, of nuts 548.

[0059] FIG. 6 A is a schematic diagram illustrating a spine 656 or central axis of a folding device (not shown). Spine 656 may include various components, such as a hinge assembly, a barrel, torque modules, springs, support plates, etc., that operate to allow a display (not shown) to bend without damaging the display. As shown in the example of FIG. 6A, spine 656 may include one or more torque modules, such as torque modules 658A-658C (collectively, “torque modules 658”). Torque modules 658 may be configured to help control the amount of force required to open or close the foldable phone. For example, torque modules 658 may include or otherwise be coupled to elastic elements (e.g., springs) to provide controlled resistance during the opening or closing process.

[0060] A s shown in the example of FIG. 6B, spine 656 may include one or more support plates, such as support plates 660A-660B (collectively, “support plates 660”). Support plates 660 may be configured to provide additional support and protection to the display of the folding device, particularly during the opening and closing process. For example, support plates 660 may distribute the torque force to display across a larger surface area, thereby avoiding excessive bending or stress on the display, reducing the risk of damage. Support plates 660 may help keep the device rigid (e.g., by reinforcing the device’s chassis or frame) and prevent the device from feeling flimsy or unstable.

[0061] FIG. 6C is a schematic diagram illustrating a hinge assembly 622A coupled to spine 656. Hinge assembly 622A may be an example of lunge assembly 122 shown in FIG. 1 . Hinge assembly 622A may be configured to reversibly attach to spine 656 (e.g,, via screws) such that hinge assembly 622A may be easily added or removed. Hinge assembly 622A may be positioned in various locations with respect to spine 656.

[0062] FIG. 6D is a schematic diagram illustrating hinge assembly 622A in greater detail. Hinge assembly 622A may include one or more arm assemblies, such as a first arm assembly 646A and a second arm assembly 646B. First arm assembly 646 A may be an example of first arm assembly 346A shown m FIG. 3, and second arm assembly 646B may be an example of second arm assembly 346B shown in FIG. 3.

[0063] First arm assembly 646A may be rotatably connected to hinge assembly 622A about a first hinge axis. In this way, first atm assembly 646A may control the angular position of a first assembly rotatably connected to first assembly 646A around the first hinge axis. Second arm assembly 646B may be rotatably connected to hinge assembly 622A about a second hinge axis. In this way, second arm assembly 646B may control theangular position of a second assembly rotatably connected to second assembly 646B around the second hinge axis.

[0064] FIG. 6E is a schematic diagram illustrating a hinge assembly 622B coupled to spine 656. Hinge assembly 622B may be an example of hinge assembly 122 shown in FIG. 1. Hinge assembly 622B may be configured to reversibly attach to spine 656 (e.g., via screws) such that hinge assembly 622B may be easily added or removed. Hinge assembly 622.B may be positioned in various locations with respect to spine 656. In the example of FIG. 6E, hinge assembly 622B is coupled to a torque module (e.g., torque module 658B).

[0065] FIG. 6F is a schematic diagram illustrating hinge assembly 622B in greater detail. Hinge assembly 622.B may include one or more arm assemblies, such as a third arm assembly 646C and a fourth arm assembly 646D. Third arm assembly 646C and fourth arm assembly 646D may be coupled to a torque module, such as torque module 656B as shown in FIG. 6E, Third arm assembly 646C and fourth arm assembly 646D may, via torque modules 656, impart a force to support plates 660 that helps expand or collapse the device.

[0066] lire following numbered examples may illustrate one or more aspects of this disclosure:

[0067] Example 1: A folding device includes a continuous display; a hinge assembly includes a first leadscrew defining a first hinge axis, wherein the first leadscrew comprises a first shaft with threads in a first direction; a second leadscrew defining a second hinge axis that is parallel to the first binge axis, wherein the second leadscrew comprises a second shaft with threads in a second direction, wherein the second direction is opposite of the first direction; and a threaded nut defining a first opening and a second opening, w herein the first opening is threaded to receive the first shaft, wherein the second opening is threaded to receive the second shaft, and wherein linear movement of the threaded nut relative to the first leadscrew along the first hinge axis causes corresponding linear movement of the threaded nut relative to the second leadscrew along the second hinge axis; a first assembly rotatably connected to the hinge assembly about the first hinge axis; and a second assembly rotatably connected to the hinge assembly about the first hinge axis.

[0068] Example 2: The folding device of example 1, wherein the hinge assembly further comprises one or more elastic elements coupled to the threaded nut, wherein the one ormore elastic elements are configured to reduce backlash between the threaded nut and at least one of the first shaft or the second shaft.

[0069] Example 3: The folding device of example 2, wherein the one or more elasti c elements are springs.

[0070] Example 4: The folding device of any of examples 2 and 3, wherein the threaded nut is a first threaded nut, wherein the lunge assembly further comprises a second threaded nut defining a third opening and a fourth opening, wherein the third opening is threaded to receive the first shaft, wherein the fourth opening is threaded to receive the second shaft, wherein linear movement of the second threaded nut relative to the first leadscrew causes corresponding linear movement of the threaded nut relative to the second leadscrew . and wherein the one or more elastic elements are further coupled to the second threaded nut.

[0071] Example 5: The folding device of any of examples 1 through 4, wherein the hinge assembly further comprises one or more biasing elements configured to resist linear movement of the threaded nut relative to the first leadscrew and corresponding linear movement of the threaded nut relative to the second leadscrew.

[0072] Example 6: The folding device of example 5, wherein the one or more biasing elements are configured to exert a force that resists linear movement of the threaded nut relative to the first leadscrew and corresponding linear movement of the threaded nut relative to the second leadscrew when the folding device is in an expanded state, and wherein the force is a non-linear function of a rotation angle of the hinge assembly.

[0073] Example 7: Tire folding device of any of examples 5 and 6, wherein the one or more biasing elements are configured to exert a force that resists linear movement of the threaded nut relative to the first leadscrew’ and corresponding linear movement of the threaded nut relative to the second leadscrew when the folding device is in a collapsed state, and wherein the force is a non-linear function of a rotation angle of the hinge assembly.

[0074] Example 8: The folding device of any of examples 1 through 7, wherein the first assembly and the second assembly are configured to rotate about the first hinge axis and the second hinge axis, respectively, to move the folding device into one of an expanded state or a collapsed state.

[0075] Example 9: The folding device of example 8, wherein when the folding device is in the expanded state: an inner surface of the first assembly is coplanar with an innersurface of the second assembly; and an outer surface of the first assembly is coplanar with an outer surface of the second assembly.

[0076] Example 10: The folding device of any of examples 8 and 9, wherein when the folding device is in the collapsed state, an outer surface of the first assembly is parallel with an outer surface of the second assembly .

[0077] Example 11: tire folding device of any of examples 1 through 10, wherein the folding device further comprises a spine to which the hinge assembly is reversibly attached.

[0078] Example 12: The folding device of any of examples 1 through 11, wherein the continuous display comprises an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display or a micro light emitting diode display.

[0079] Various aspects have been described in this disclosure. These and other aspects are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS:1 . A folding device comprising: a continuous display; a hinge assembly comprising: a first leadscrew1defining a first hinge axis, wherein the first leadscrew comprises a first shaft with threads in a first direction; a second leadscrew defining a second hinge axis that is parallel to the first hinge axis, wherein the second leadscrew' comprises a second shaft with threads in a second direction, wherein the second direction is opposite of the first direction; and a threaded nut defining a first opening and a second opening, wherein the first opening is threaded to receive the first shaft, wherein the second opening is threaded to receive the second shaft, and wherein linear movement of the threaded nut relative to the first leadscrew along the first hinge axis causes corresponding linear movement of the threaded nut relative to the second leadscrew along the second hinge axis; a first assembly rotatably connected to the hinge assembly about the first hinge axis; and a second assembly rotatably connected to the hinge assembly about the first hinge axis.The folding device of claim 1, wherein the hinge assembly further comprises one or more elastic elements coupled to the threaded nut, w herein the one or more elastic elements are configured to reduce backlash between the threaded nut and at least one of the first shaft or the second shaft.

3. Tire folding device of claim 2, wherein the one or more elastic elements comprise springs.

4. The folding device of any of claims 2 and 3, wherein the threaded nut is a first threaded nut, wherein the hinge assembly further comprises a second threaded nut defining a third opening and a fourth opening, wherein the third opening is threaded to receive the first shaft, wherein the fourth opening is threaded to receive the second shaft, wherein linear movement of the second threaded nut relative to the first leadscrew causes corresponding linear movement of the threaded nut relative to the second leadscrew, and wherein the one or more elastic elements are further coupled to the second threaded nut.

5. The folding device of any of claims 1 through 4, wherein the hinge assembly further comprises one or more biasing elements configured to resist linear movement of the threaded nut relative to the first leadscrew' and corresponding linear movement of the threaded nut relative to the second leadscrew.

6. The folding device of claim 5, wherein the one or more biasing elements are configured to exert a force on the threaded nut that resists linear movement of the threaded nut relative to the first leadscrew and corresponding linear movement of tire threaded nut relative to the second leadscrew when the folding device is in an expanded state, and wherein the force is a non-linear function of a rotation angle of the hinge assembly.

7. The folding device of any of claims 5 and 6, wherein the one or more biasing elements are configured to exert a force on the threaded nut that resists linear movement of the threaded nut relative to the first leadscrew and corresponding linear movement of the threaded nut relative to the second leadscrew when the folding device is in a collapsed state, and wherein the force is a non-linear function of a rotation angle of the hinge assembly.

8. The folding device of any of claims 1 through 7, wherein the first assembly and the second assembly are configured to rotate about the first hinge axis and the second hinge axis, respectively, to move the folding device into one of an expanded state or a collapsed state.

9. The folding device of claim 8, wherein when the folding device is in the expanded state: an inner surface of the first assembly is coplanar with an inner surface of the second assembly; and an outer surface of the first assembly is coplanar with an outer surface of the second assembly.

10. The folding device of any of claims 8 and 9, wherein when the folding device is in the collapsed state, an outer surface of the first assembly is parallel with an outer surface of the second assembly.

11. ITe folding device of any of claims 1 through 10, wherein the folding device further comprises a spine to which the hinge assembly is reversibly attached,12. The folding device of any of claims 1 through 11, wherein the continuous display comprises an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display or a micro light emiting diode display.

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