Screwless hinge cover for foldable devices

Abstract

An example foldable display assembly includes a first housing. The foldable display assembly further includes a second housing. The foldable display assembly further includes a hinge mechanism coupled to the first housing and the second housing, the hinge mechanism including one or more tabs. The foldable display assembly further includes a continuous display connected to the first housing and the second housing, tire continuous display spanning the hinge mechanism. The foldable display assembly further includes a hinge cover including one or more snap engagement points that are positioned to engage with the one or more tabs.

Description

SCREWLESS HINGE COVER FOR FOLDABLE DEVICESBACKGROUND

[0001] Devices that include displays may be referred to as display devices. In general, it may be desirable to increase the size of a display (e.g., the area on which images are displayed) as much as possible. One way to increase tire 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). Assembly of such a device with a foldable display may include attaching a cover to a hinge mechanism of the device.SUMMARY

[0002] Foldable computing devices may include foldable displays that are “folded” or otherwise collapsed by way of a hinge mechanism. The hinge mechanism may include a number of relatively small and delicate components that facilitate the folding of the foldable device, such as springs, tabs, screws, and other components, and that require protection from potential sources of damage, such as intrusion by dust and water, small particles, and other items. Such a hinge mechanism may be protected from damage by a hinge cover that is attached to the hinge mechanism by screw s that require significant space within the hinge. For example, the threading for the screw' may need to be of a minimum thickness (e.g., a minimum thickness of surrounding material) and depth (e.g., a minimum number of rotations of a screw facilitated by the threading of a hole into w'hich a screw is inserted). These minimum requirements for the sizing of the screw may undesirably consume available space and increase the minimum thickness of a hinge of a foldable device. In addition, the relatively small size and high complexity of the screw' holes and threads may increase the manufacturing costs and complexity of a hinge cover.

[0003] In accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure, a hinge cover includes one or more snap engagement points that are positioned to engage with one or more tabs of a hinge mechanism. For instance, the hinge cover may include one or more snap engagement points that enable the hinge cover to be attached to the hinge mechanism without the need for screws to connect the two components. The use of tabs and snap engagement points may obviate the need to dedicate additional space for screws and threading for the screw's. In addition, the use of tabs and snap engagement points may enable the manufacturing of the hinge assembly using a less costly and complex process. For instance, the hinge cover maybe manufactured via a stamping process (e.g.., as opposed to computer numerical control (CNC) machining, 3D printing, and / or metal injection molding (MIM)).

[0004] In an example foldable display assembly includes a first housing; a second housing; a hinge mechanism coupled to the first housing and the second housing, the hinge mechanism including one or more tabs; a continuous display connected to the first housing and the second housing, the continuous display spanning the hinge mechanism; and a hinge cover including one or more snap engagement points that are positioned to engage with the one or more tabs.

[0005] In another example, a method includes stamping sheet metal to form a hinge cover for a foldable display assembly, wherein the hinge cover includes one or more snap engagement points; and attaching the hinge cover to a hinge mechanism coupled to a first housing and a second housing of the foldable display assembly, wherein attaching the hinge cover includes engaging the one or snap engagement points to one or more tabs of the hinge mechanism.

[0006] In another example kit for attaching a hinge cover to a hinge mechanism of a foldable display assembly includes a first housing; a second housing; the hinge mechanism coupled to the first housing and the second housing, the hinge mechanism including one or more tabs; a continuous display connected to the first housing and the second housing, the continuous display spanning the hinge mechanism; and the hinge cover including one or more snap engagement points that are positioned to engage with the one or more tabs.

[0007] 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

[0008] FIGS. 1A and IB are schematic diagrams illustrating folding devices with a folding continuous display, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a hinge mechanism, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a hinge mechanism, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a hinge mechanism, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0012] FIGS. 5A and 5B are schematic diagrams illustrating portions of hinge mechanisms, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating an assembly of a folding device, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] FIGS. 1 A and IB are schematic diagrams illustrating a folding device 100 with a folding continuous display, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure. FIGS. 1A and IB illustrate folding device 100 from different perspectives and physical states (e.g., “open” vs. “closed”). Examples of folding device 100 include foldable computing devices such as foldable smart phones, foldable tablets, foldable e-readers, foldable gaming systems, or any other foldable portable device.

[0015] FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram illustrating a folding device 100 with a folding continuous display 106 from a z-axis perspective and in an “open” or “unfolded” state. As shown in FIG. 1A, folding device 100 includes a first assembly 102, second assembly 104, continuous display 106, and hinge 108 connecting first assembly 102 and second assembly 104. First assembly 102 and second assembly 104 may be rotatably connected to hinge 108. 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 up at folding device 100 in the z-axis and the outer surface of second assembly 104 may be visible when looking up al device 100 in the z-axis. The inner surfaces of first assembly 102 and second assembly 104 may not be externally visible when folding device 100 is closed. As further shown in FIG. 1 , when folding device 100 is frilly open, an inner surface of a first assembly 102 is coplanar with an inner surface of a second assembly 104.

[0016] Folding device 100 may include a continuous display 106 that spans at least a portion of the interior of folding device 100. Continuous display 106 may be a display that is 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, displays having emitting / emissive elements such as light emitting diode (LED) displays, organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays, micro light-emitting diode (microLED) displays, electronic ink (e-ink) displays, or similar monochrome or color displays capable of outputting visible information to a user of device 100. Continuous display 106 may be flexible and capable of being shaped without damage to the display. In addition, continuous display may span both first assembly 102 and second assembly 104 across hinge 108. For instance, continuous display 106 may cover a majority of the inner surfaces of first assembly 102 and second assembly 104.

[0017] In some examples, folding device 100 may include one or more displays in addition to continuous display 106. For instance, device 100 may include a first additional display on the outer surface of first assembly 102. In some examples, folding device 100 may further include a second additional display on the outer surface of second assembly 104.

[0018] Folding device 100 includes flexible region 112. Flexible region 1 12 may be a region of continuous display 106 that bends and otherwise changes shape to enable folding device 100 to open and close. For example, flexible region 1 12 may include a portion of continuous display 106 that changes from a planar shape to a curved shape when folding device 100 is closed. Flexible region 112 may bend or otherwise change shape along an axis consistent with hinge 108.

[0019] Device 100 may include a mechanical hinge such as hinge 108 that rotatably connects first assembly 102 and second assembly 104. Hinge 108 may include one or more mechanical components such as mechanical moving joints. Hinge 108 may enable first assembly 102 and second assembly 104 to rotate towards each other and terminate in a closed position of folding device 100. For example, when folding device 100 is being adjusted from a closed position to an open position, hinge 108 may facilitate the adjustment of the position of folding device 100 and the positions of first assembly 102 and second assembly 104 relative to each other. Continuous display 106 may overlay (looking down at folding device 100 along the z-axis) hinge 108.

[0020] Continuous display includes hinge cover 110. In the example of FIG. 1, hinge cover 1 10 is illustrated with dashed lines to indicate that hinge cover 1 10 may not be visible from the perspective of FIG. 1 (e.g., looking down the z-axis). Hinge cover 110 may be a cover may include one or more materials such as aluminum, steel, titanium, composites, and / or other materials. For example, hinge cover 110 may be comprised of an alloy of titanium and other metals.

[0021] Hinge cover 110 may be a component of folding device 100 that covers the exterior of hinge 108 (e.g., the sides of hinge 108 that would be visible from the exterior of folding device 100 without the presence of hinge cover 110). Hinge cover 110 may provide a barrier between the components of hinge 108 and an exterior environment of foldable device 100. Hinge cover 110 may provide a barrier to protect the components of hinge 108 from intrusion and damage. For example, hinge cover 110 may prevent particles, dust, and water from entering hinge 108 and damaging one or more components of hinge 108 or otherwise interfering with the operation of hinge 108.

[0022] Hinge cover 110 may be attached to hinge 108 via one or more attachment mechanisms such as screws. Hinge cover 110 may be attached to hinge 108 using one or more screws that thread into hinge cover 110. For example, hinge cover 110 may include several locations of thr eading where screws are threaded into to secure hinge cover 110 to hinge 108.

[0023] Hinge cover 110 when manufactured to include threading for screws may provide reduced space for other components of hinge 108. The threads of hinge cover 110 may require a minimum of thickness of a surrounding wall to ensure sufficient structural strength. In addition, the threads may require a minimum depth to ensure that any screws remain secured within the threads. The minimum thickness and depth of the structure for the threads may reduce the relatively small amount of space available for hinge 108 in flexible region 112. Further, the small size of the threads may preclude hinge cover 1 10 from being manufactured using comparatively less costly and complex manufacturing techniques such as metal stamping. For example, a manufacturer may need to employ computer numerical control (CNC) machining to achieve a necessary level of manufacturing precision required to manufacture hinge cover 1 10 as including the threading for screws.

[0024] In accordance with the aspects of this disclosure, hinge 108 may include one or more tabs and hinge cover 110 may include one or more snap engagement points that are positioned to engage with the one or more labs. Rather than being secured to each other using screws, hinge cover 110 may include one or more snap engagement points that enable hinge cover ] 10 to be secured to hinge 108 without requiring the use of screws. For instance, hinge cover 1 10 to be pressed or “snapped” into place as attached to hinge 108.

[0025] Hinge 108 may include one or more tabs. Hinge 108 may include tabs that are one or more shapes, such as 180° bends of edges of hinge 108. Hinge 108 may include one or more tabs located along one or more sides of hinge 108. For example, hinge 108 may include three tabs along one edge of hinge 108 and four tabs along a different edge of hinge 108. Hinge 108 may include tabs strategically located along one or more sides of hinge 108. For example, hinge 108 may include tabs located near components that are particularly sensitive to dust intrusion to ensure that hinge cover 1 10 is tightly secured near those components.

[0026] Hinge cover 110 may include one or more snap engagement points. Hinge cover 110 may include the one or more snap engagement points along an internal side of hinge cover 110 (e.g., the side of hinge cover 110 that faces folding device 100 when attached to hinge 108). Hinge cover 110 may include snap engagement points that are of one or more shapes. For example, hinge cover 1 10 may include one or more curves, bends, or other shapes.

[0027] The designs of this disclosure provide one or more technical advantages. The use of tabs and snap engagement points may increase the volume of space between hinge cover 110 and the rest of folding device 100. For example, the use of tabs and snap engagement points may increase the volume available for components of hinge 108. In addition, the use of tabs instead of screws may enable less costly and complex manufacturing techniques to be used. For example, the use of tabs and snap engagement points may enable a manufacturer to manufacture hinge cover 110 using metal stamping, a process significantly less costly than CNC machining, metal injection molding (MIM), or 3D printing. Further, the use of stamping may reduce the costs and labor associated with finishing (e.g., polishing) hinge cover 1 10 for aesthetic requirements, as techniques such as MIM and 3D often require additional labor- intensive finishing processes compared to stamping.

[0028] FIG. IB is a schematic diagram illustrating folding device 100 from a y-axis perspective and in a “closed” or “folded” state. As shown in FIG. IB, folding device 100 includes first assembly 102, second assembly 104, continuous display 106, hinge 108 connecting first assembly 102 and second assembly 104, hinge cover 110, and enclosure elements 114. As described above with respect to FIG. 1A, first assembly 102 and second assembly 104 may be rotatably connected to hinge 108.

[0029] Hinge cover 1 10 of folding device 100 may be visible h orn the perspective of folding device 100 as illustrated in FIG. IB. Hinge cover 110 may “cover” or visibly occlude hinge 108 from a perspective exterior to that of folding device 100 (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. IB). For example, hinge cover 1 ]0 may provide a barrier between hinge 108 and an exterior of folding device 100 that visibly occludes hinge 108.

[0030] Hinge cover 110 may include one or more snap engagement points. Hinge cover 110 may include snap engagement points that are positioned to engage with one or more tabs located in hinge 108. For example, during a manufacturing process a manufacturer may matingly engage the snap engagement points of hinge cover 110 with tabs of hinge 108. Hinge cover 110 may include snap engagement points that are formed from the stamped sheet metal used to manufacture hinge cover 110.

[0031] Hinge 108 may connect first assembly 102 and second assembly 104. Hinge 108 may enable the “folding” of folding device 100 and transition from an open or unfolded state to a closed or foldable state as illustrated in FIGS. 1A and IB, respectively. As hinge cover 110 visibly occludes hinge 108 from an exterior of folding device 100, hinge 108 is illustrated with dashed lines to indicate its location within folding device 100. Hinge 108 may include one or more tabs. Hinge 108 may include one or more tabs that are formed or bent edges ofhinge 108. In some examples, hinge 108 may include one or more tabs that are pieces of metal folded over or stamped.

[0032] Folding device 100 includes enclosure components 114. Enclosure components 1 14 may include one or more components such as covers, engagement components, pads, and other components and be comprised of one or more types of materials such as aluminum, steel, titanium, plastic, rubber, adhesives, and other types of materials. Enclosure components 1 14 may cover or visibly occlude hinge 108 and / or a portion of hinge cover 110. For example, enclosure components 1 14 may include one or more covers or sheets of material that visually occlude hinge 108 and / or a portion of hinge cover 110 (e.g., from a perspective exterior to that of folding device 100). Enclosure components 114 may cover and provide a barrier for one or more gaps between hinge cover 1 10 and first assembly 102 and second assembly 104. For example, enclosure components 114 may cover and provide a barrier over a gap between hinge cover 1 10 and second assembly 104.

[0033] In some examples, enclosure components 114 may be integrated with one or more other components of folding device 100. For instance, enclosure components 114 may be integrated with first assembly 102 and second assembly 104. Enclosure components 114 maybe integrated with or otherwise merged with other components of an enclosure of folding device 100.

[0034] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a hinge mechanism 200, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure. Hinge mechanism 200 may be part of a foldable device such as folding device 100 as illustrated in FIGS. 1 A- IB and is illustrated from a y- axis perspective similar to the perspective illustrated in FIG. IB.

[0035] Hinge mechanism 200 includes hinge 208. Hinge 208 may be similar to hinge 108 as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1B and provide similar functionality. For example, hinge 208 may enable the folding functionality of a foldable device, such as folding device 100. Hinge 208 may include one or more rotatable components that enable hinge 208 to change shape and change the location and orientation of components connected to hinge 208. For example, hinge 208 may enable first assembly 102 and second assembly 104, as illustrated in FIG. 1A, to change location and orientation relative to each other and enable folding device 100 to “open” and “close”.

[0036] Hinge mechanism 208 includes brackets 216A-B (hereinafter “brackets 216”). Brackets 216 may include one or more of brackets, support structures, clips, screw bosses, and other components. Brackets 216 may enable other components of a foldable device to matingly engage to hinge mechanism 208, such as one or more “halves” of a foldable device.In an example, bracket 216A enables first assembly 102 to matingly engage to hinge mechanism 208.

[0037] Hinge mechanism 200 includes hinge cover 210. Hinge cover 210 may be similar to hinge cover 1 10 as illustrated in FIGS. 1 A-1B and provide similar functionality. For example, hinge cover 210 may be a component comprised of steel or titanium that provides a barrier between hinge 208 and an exterior of hinge mechanism 200.

[0038] Hinge cover 210 includes screw bosses 218. Screw bosses 218 may be tapped or otherwise threaded holes in hinge cover 210 that are configured to receive screws. Screw bosses 218 may enable one or more screws (not illustrated) to matingly connect hinge cover 210 to hinge 208. For example, during an assembly process of folding device 100 one or more screws may be inserted into screw bosses 218 to secure hinge cover 210 in place relative to hinge 208.

[0039] Screw bosses 218 may require a minimum thickness of surrounding material. Screw bosses 218 may require a minimum thickness of surrounding material to ensure that screw bosses 218 retain structural integrity when forces are applied to hinge 208 and hinge cover 210 (e.g., a user bumps hinge cover 110 against an object, forces applied during the opening and closing of folding device 100, etc.). In an example, screw bosses 218 require a minimum thickness of surrounding material to reduce the likelihood of screws shearing through or otherwise damaging screw bosses 218 in the event of an impact against hinge cover 210.

[0040] Screw bosses 218 may require a minimum number of threads to secure screws in place. Screw bosses 218 may require a minimum number of threads or turns of threads in order to apply a minimum amount of resistance (e.g., static friction) to screws inserted into screw bosses 218. For example, screw bosses 218 may require a minimum of two full turns of threading in order to provide a required amount of static friction and prevent the screws from backing out of screw bosses under predetermined conditions. In an example, a manufacturer requires screw bosses 218 to provide at least 0.3 Nm of static friction.

[0041] Screw bosses 218 may utilize a substantial amount of the volume of folding device 100 and require the use of complex manufacturing and finishing techniques. Screw bosses 218 may reduce the volume of space available for other components of hinge mechanism 200. For example, screw bosses 218 may limit the amount of space available for components of hinge 208 that enable the folding of folding device 100. In addition, due to the relatively small size of screw bosses 218, a manufacturer may be limited to employing relatively complex and time consuming manufacturing processes.

[0042] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a hinge mechanism 300, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure. In the example of FIG. 3, hinge mechanism 300 is illustrated from an isometric perspective (e.g., compared to the other perspective illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1B). Hinge mechanism 300 may be integrated within a computing device, such as folding device 100 as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1B. For example, hinge mechanism 300 may include components such as hinge 308 that enable folding device 100 to “open” and “close” or otherwise change shape.

[0043] Hinge mechanism 300 includes hinge 308. Hinge 308 may be similar' to hinge 108 as illustrated in FIG. 1 and provide similar functionality. For example, hinge 308 may include one or more components that enable folding device 100 to change shape and fold, such as springs, guides, and rotatable components. Hinge 308 may provide a physical connection between one or more “halves” of folding device 100 such as first assembly 102 and second assembly 104 as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1B.

[0044] Hinge 308 includes one or more tabs 320. Tabs 320 may include one or more components in a variety of shapes that provide one or more points to which other components may attach or otherwise matingly engage. Tabs 320 may include components such as strips of material bent or trimmed to create an edge, hook, loop, or other shape that facilitates engagement. For example, tabs 320 may include a hook that engagements with another component and resists disconnection between the hook and the component. Tabs 320 may be located in one or more positions along hinge 308 and distributed along an axis of hinge 308. For example, tabs 320 may be distributed along an axis of hinge 308 to ensure that hinge 308 and hinge cover 310 are attached in multiple locations.

[0045] Hinge mechanism 300 includes hinge cover 310. Hinge cover 310 may be similar to hinge cover 1 10 as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1B and provide similar functionality. For example, hinge cover 310 may be formed of stamped sheet metal, such as stamped steel or titanium alloy. Hinge cover 310 may be formed of stamped sheet metal that is of a uniform thickness, such as less than 0.4 mm in thickness (e.g., thickness of tire thinnest side of hinge cover 310). For example, hinge cover 310 may be of a thickness in a range from 0.15 mm to 0.35 mm. Hinge cover 310 may maintain the thickness of less than 0.4 mm when manufactured. In some examples, hinge cover 310 may include a uniform thickness of the walls of hinge cover 310.

[0046] Hinge cover 310 includes snap engagement points 322. Snap engagement points 322 may include one or more components in a variety of shapes, such as a hole in hinge cover 310 into which a tab of tabs 320 is inserted, an edge of hinge 310 is folded over, an internaledge of hinge cover 310 (e.g., a piece of material with a cut edge that is bent towards the inside of hinge cover 310), and other shapes and components. In addition, snap engagement points 322 may be a module of hinge cover 310 that provide torque / synchronization between hinge 308 and hinge cover 310 using mating snap geometry. Snap engagement points 322 may be located along one or more sides of hinge cover 310 and correspond to the relative location of one or more of tabs 320. For example, snap engagement points 322 may be located in one or more locations along hinge cover 310 such that, when hinge cover 310 is attached to hinge 308, snap engagement points 322 engage with tabs 320 of hinge cover 310. Hinge cover 310 may include snap engagement points 322 and not include screw bosses, such as screw bosses 218, that are configured to receive screws to attach hinge 308 to hinge cover 310.

[0047] Hinge cover 310 includes one or more of pads 324 located between hinge 308 and hinge cover 310. Pads 324 may include one or more types of material such as foam or adhesives. Pads 324 may be adhered or otherwise attached to hinge cover 310 prior to the assembly of hinge mechanism 300. For example, pads 324 may be glued or otherwise attached to an interior of hinge cover 310 (from a perspective exterior to folding device 100) and offset at least a portion of hinge cover 310 from hinge 308. In some examples, the portion of hinge cover 310 that corresponds to the location of pads 324 may be recessed at least partially into hinge cover 310 (e.g., to reduce how far pads 324 “stick out" from the interior surface of hinge cover 310). While illustrated in FIG. 3 as located in three portions along only a part of the interior of hi nge cover 310, pads 324 an entirety of the inner surface of hinge cover 310.

[0048] Pads 324 may control directional tolerances (e.g., a space) of hinge 308 relative to hinge cover 310 by providing a force that opposes the compression of pads 324. Pads 324 may generate a force when compressed that opposes the compression of pads 324. In an example, hinge cover 310 includes pads 324 and is installed against hinge 308. Pads 324 are compressed by components of hinge 308 and generate a force that opposes the compression (e.g., a force in the opposite direction of the force compressing the pads). Pads 324 may control the spacing via the sizing of pads 324 and materials chosen for construction. Pads 324 may generate a relatively greater amount of opposing force when pads 324 are of a relatively greater thickness (depth of pads 324 between hinge 308 and hinge cover 310) and / or include relatively firmer material, such as a stiffer foam. When providing a relatively greater amount of opposing force, pads 324 may increase the directional tolerance (e.g., space in the z-axis) between hinge 308 and hinge cover 310 (e.g., due to the increased amount of opposing forcepushing hinge 308 and hinge cover 310 apart). Pads 324 may generate a relatively lesser amount of opposing force when of relatively lesser thickness and / or when constructed of less firm materials (e.g., a foam that requires less force to compress). In an example, a manufactur er installs pads 324 into hinge cover 310, where pads 324 include dense foam that is relatively resistant to compression. The manufacturer installs hinge cover 310 against hinge 308. Hinge cover 310 and hinge 308 compress pads 324 and cause pads 324 to generate a force opposing the compression. Pads 324, via the opposing force, create and maintain a space between hinge 308 and hinge cover 310. A manufacturer of hinge mechanism 300 may use pads 324 to create consistent spacing between copies of hinge 308 and hinge cover 310 when manufacturing copies of folding device 100. In an example, a manufacturer determines a directional tolerance in the z-axis that should exist between copies hinge 308 and hinge cover 310 when manufacturing copies of folding device 100. The manufacturer determines the sizing and material composition of pads 324 based on the determined directional tolerance between hinge 308 and hinge cover 310.

[0049] Hinge mechanism 300 may include an enclosure that visually occludes one or more of snap engagement points 322. Hinge mechanism 300 may include an enclosure, such as enclosure components 114. For example, hinge mechanism 300 may include an enclosure that visually occludes one or more of snap engagement points 322 from a perspective exterior to that of folding device 100.

[0050] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a hinge mechanism 400, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure. In the example of FIG. 4, hinge mechanism 400 is illustrated from a y-axis perspective consistent with the perspective illustrated in FIG. IB. Hinge mechanism 400 may be integrated within a computing device, such as folding device 100 as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1B.

[0051] Hinge mechanism 400 includes hinge 408. Hinge 408 may be similar to hinge 108 as illustrated in FIGS. 1A and IB and / or hinge 308 as illustrated in FIG. 3. For example, hinge 308 may include one or more components that enable folding device 100 to change shape and fold.

[0052] Hinge 408 includes tabs 420. Tabs 420 may be similar to tabs 320 as illustrated in FIG. 3 and provide similar functionality. For example, tabs 420 may include one or more components of hinge 408 that matingly engage with other components of hinge mechanism 400.

[0053] Hinge mechanism 400 includes hinge cover 410. Hinge cover 410 may be similar to hinge cover 1 10 as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1B and / or hinge cover 310 as illustrated in FIG. 3.For example, hinge cover 410 may be a stamped metal component that provides a barrier between hinge 408 and an exterior of hinge mechanism 400.

[0054] Hinge cover 410 includes snap engagement points 422. Snap engagement points 422 may be similar to engagement points 322 as illustrated in FIG. 3 and provide similar functionality. For example, snap engagement points 422 may include one or more bended or folded sections of hinge cover 410.

[0055] Engagement region 426 may be a region of hinge mechanism that includes at least a portion of tabs 420 and snap engagement points 422. Engagement region 426 may include tabs 420 and snap engagement points 422 that are matingly engaged with each other. For example, a manufacturer / assembler of folding device 100 may engage tabs 420 and snap engagement points 422 in engagement region 426. Engagement region 426 may include a gap or a space between one or more sides of tabs 420 and snap engagement points 422. For example, when matingly engaged each tab of tabs 420 and each corresponding snap engagement point of snap engagement points 422 may have a space between each other that corresponds to a position of hinge 408 relative to hinge cover 410.

[0056] Tabs 420 and snap engagement points 422 may control a space between each other and, by extension, the relative position of hinge 408 and hinge cover 410. Tabs 420 and snap engagement points 422 to control the relative position of hinge 408 and hinge cover 410 relative to each other in the x-axis (as illustrated in FIG. 4) and the y-axis (not illustrated in FIG. 4). Tabs 420 and snap engagement points 422 may include one or more tolerances that determine the size of the space between tabs 420 and corresponding snap engagement points 422 and, by extension, the position of hinge 408 relative to hinge cover 410. In an example, a manufacturer of folding device 100 manufactures tabs 420 and snap engagement points 422 with particular tolerances such that tabs 420 and snap engagement points 422 have a particular range of spaces between each other when hinge mechanism 400 is assembled.When hinge mechanism 400 is assembled, the spaces between tabs 420 and hinge mechanism 400 correspond to the position of hinge 408 relative to hinge cover 410.

[0057] Hinge cover 410 includes pads 424. Pads 424 may be similar to pads 324 as illustrated in FIG. 3 and provide similar functionality. Pads 424 may be comprised of one or more materials such as adhesives and foam. Pads 424 may be located between an interior of hinge cover 410 (e.g., a side ofhinge 410 facing hinge 408) and one or more components of hinge 408. Pads 424 may compress when hinge cover 410 is installed against hinge 408. In an example, hinge cover 410 is installed against hinge 408. Pads 424 compress as hinge cover 410 is pressed and installed against the one or more components ofhinge 408.

[0058] Pads 424 may control spacing between hinge 408 and hinge cover 410 in a particular direction (illustrated as the Z-axis in FIG. 4). Pads 424 may control the spacing between hinge 408 and hinge cover 410. Pads 424 may control the spacing by generating a force that opposes the compression of pads 424. Pads 424 may generate an opposing force when compressed due to the compressible nature of pads 424. For example, pads 424 may generate an opposing force in a direction towards hinge 408 due to resistance to the compression. Pads 424 may generate an opposing force that pushes apart hinge 408 and hinge cover 410 that results in a space between hinge 408 and hinge cover 410. In an example, pads 424 are compressed during the assembly of hinge mechanism 400. Pads 424 generate an opposing force that opposes the compression of pads 424 and maintain a space between hinge 408 and hinge cover 410.

[0059] Pads 424 may control spacing of one or more components in engagement region 426. Pads 424 may control spacing within engagement region 426 via the opposing force. In an example, pads 424 are comprised of a relatively stiff material and generate a correspondingly greater amount of opposing force. The opposing force reduces the amount of space between tabs 420 and snap engagement points 422 in the z-direction (e.g.. due to the opposing force “pushing” hinge 408 and hinge cover 410 closer together).

[0060] FIGS. 5 A and 5B are schematic diagrams illustrating portions of hinge mechanisms, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure. FIG. 5A illustrates a portion of hinge mechanism 500A, which may be similar to hinge mechanism 300 as illustrated in FIG. 3 and / or hinge mechanism 400 as illustrated in FIG. 4. For example, hinge mechanism 500A may enable a foldable device such as folding device 100 to change shape and fold.

[0061] Hinge mechanism 500A includes hinge 508A and hinge cover 5I0A. Hinge 508A may be similar to hinge 308 as illustrated in FIG. 3 and / or hinge 408 as illustrated in FIG. 4. For example, hinge 508A may enable folding device 100 to change shape and fold. Hinge cover 510A may be similar to hinge cover 310 as illustrated in FIG. 3 and / or hinge cover 410 as illustrated in FIG. 4. For example, hinge cover 510A may provide a barrier between hinge 508A and an exterior of folding device 100.

[0062] Hinge mechanism 500A includes tabs 520A. Tabs 520A may be similar to tabs 320 as illustrated in FIG. 3 and / or tabs 420 as illustrated in FIG. 4. For example, tabs 520A may include one or more components that enable hinge 508A to attach to hinge cover 510A via snap engagement points 522A.

[0063] In the example of FIG. 5 A. snap engagement points 522A include a folded portion of hinge cover 510A. Snap engagement points 522A include a portion of hinge cover 510A thatis folded over by a range of angles, such as between 90° to 180°. Snap engagement points 522A may be folded over and / or rotated bends of hinge cover 510A during a manufacturing process of hinge cover 51 OA. In an example, a manufacturer stamps hinge cover 510A during a manufacturing process. As part of the manufacturing process, the manufacturer stamps hinge cover 510A as folded over in one or more locations to create snap engagement points 522A.

[0064] FIG. 5B illustrates an example portion of hinge mechanism 500B which may be similar to hinge mechanism 500A. For example, hinge mechanism 500 may include hinge 508B and hinge cover 510B which may be similar to hinge 508A and hinge cover 510B as illustrated in FIG. 5A, respectively.

[0065] Hinge 5O8B includes tabs 520B. Tabs 520B may be similar to tabs 520A as illustrated in FIG. 5A and provide similar functionality. For example, tabs 520B may matingly engage with another component of hinge mechanism 500B. A manufacturer may manufacture tabs 520B in one or more shapes or configurations such that tabs 520B engage with other components such as snap engagement points 522B.

[0066] Hinge cover 510B includes snap engagement points 522B. Snap engagement points 522B may be similar to snap engagement points 522A as illustrated in FIG. 5A and provide similar functionality. For example, snap engagement points 522B may matingly engage with labs 520B and secure hinge cover 510B to hinge 508B.

[0067] In the example of FIG. 5B, snap engagement points 522B may be shaped as edges extended from an interior side (e.g., facing hinge 508B) of hinge cover 510B. Snap engagement points 522B may include one or more surfaces that extend from the surface of hinge cover 510B and enable tabs 520B to secure hinge 508B with hinge cover 510B. A manufacturer may manufacture hinge cover 510B as including snap engagement points 522B by trimming one or more edges of hinge cover 510B. For example, a manufacturer may trim three edges of hinge cover 510B to manufacture snap engagement points 522B.

[0068] FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating an assembly 600 of a folding device, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure. For the purposes of explanation, the assembly technique FIG. 6 is described in the context of the hinge mechanism of FIG. 3. However, other assembly techniques may be used to manufacture the hinge mechanism of FIG. 3. Similarly, the assembly technique of FIG. 6 may be used to manufacture hinge mechanisms other than that of FIG. 3, such as hinge mechanism 400 of FIG. 4, hinge mechanism 500A of FIG. 5 A, and' or hinge mechanism 500B of FIG. 5B.

[0069] A manufacturer stamps sheet metal to form a hinge cover, such as hinge cover 310, for a foldable display assembly, such as folding device 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1, where the hinge cover includes one or more snap engagement points, such as snap engagement points 322 (602). The manufacturer may stamp sheet metal that comprises one or more materials such as steel or titanium alloy. In addition, the manufacturer may stamp the sheet metal into one or more shapes for engagement points 322, such as loops, folds, and trimmed edges. In an example, the manufacturer trims three sides of hinge cover 310 to form a snap engagement point.

[0070] The manufacturer attaches hinge cover 310 to a hinge mechanism, such as hinge 308, coupled to a first housing, such as first assembly 102 as illustrated in FIG. 1, and a second housing, such as second assembly 104 as illustrated in FIG. 1, of folding device 100, where attaching hinge cover 310 include engaging one or more of snap engagement point 322 to one or more tabs, such as tabs 320, of hinge 308 (604). The manufacturer may “snap” or otherwise engage tabs 320 and snap engagement points 322 such that tabs 320 and snap engagement points 322 secure hinge 308 and hinge cover 310 together. The use of tabs 320 and snap engagement points 322 may enable the manufacturer to manufacture hinge cover 310 using metal stamping instead of more costly and complex manufacturing techniques such as CNC machining or 3D printing. In some examples, the manufacturer may obtain a kit for attaching hinge cover 310 to hinge 308 and assemble the kit.

[0071] Example 1: A foldable display assembly, comprising a first housing; a second housing; a hinge mechanism coupled to the first housing and the second housing, the hinge mechanism including one or more tabs; a continuous display connected to the first housing and the second housing, the continuous display spanning the hinge mechanism; and a hinge cover including one or more snap engagement points that are positioned to engage with the one or more tabs.

[0072] Example 2: The foldable display assembly of example 1, wherein the hinge cover is formed of stamped sheet metal.

[0073] Example 3: The foldable display assembly of example 2, wherein one or more snap engagement points are formed from the stamped sheet metal.

[0074] Example 4: The foldable display assembly of example 2, wherein the stamped sheet metal is made of at least one of steel or titanium alloy.

[0075] Example 5: The foldable display assembly of any of examples 1-4 wherein the hinge cover includes one or more compressible pads positioned between the hinge cover and the hinge mechanism.10076] Example 6: The foldable display assembly of example 5, wherein a compression of the one or more compressible pads to a compressed thickness provides an opposing force that controls a directional tolerance of the hinge mechanism relative to the hinge cover.

[0077] Example 7: The foldable display assembly of example 5. wherein the one or more compressible pads are comprised of one or more of: adhesive pads, or foam pads.

[0078] Example 8: The foldable display assembly of any of examples 1-7, wherein the foldable display assembly includes a space between each tab and corresponding snap engagement point, and wherein a size of the space corresponds to a position of the hinge mechanism relative to the hinge cover.

[0079] Example 9: The foldable display assembly of any of examples 1-8, wherein the hinge cover is less than 0.4 mm in thickness.

[0080] Example 10: The foldable display assembly of any of claims 1-9, wherein the foldable display assembly includes an enclosure, and wherein the enclosure visually occludes the one or more snap engagement points from a perspective exterior to that of the foldable display.

[0081] Example 11: The foldable display assembly of any of examples 1-10, wherein the one or more snap engagement points each include a rotated bend of the hinge cover.

[0082] Example 12: The foldable display assembly of any of examples 1-11, wherein the hinge cover does not include screw bosses that are configured to receive screws to attach the hinge mechanism to the hinge cover.

[0083] Example 13: A method, comprising: stamping sheet metal to form a hinge cover for a foldable display assembly, wherein the hinge cover includes one or more snap engagement points; and attaching the hinge cover to a hinge mechanism coupled to a first housing and a second housing of the foldable display assembly, wherein attaching the hinge cover includes engaging the one or snap engagement points to one or more tabs of the hinge mechanism.

[0084] Example 14: The method of example 13, wherein the foldable display assembly includes a space between each tab and corresponding snap engagement point, and wherein a size of the space corresponds to a position of the hinge mechanism relative to the hinge cover.

[0085] Example 15: A kit for attaching a hinge cover to a hinge mechanism of a foldable display assembly, the kit comprising: a first housing; a second housing; the hinge mechanism coupled to the first housing and the second housing, the hinge mechanism including one or more tabs; a continuous display connected to the first housing and the second housing, the continuous display spanning the hinge mechanism; and the hinge cover including one or more snap engagement points that are positioned to engage with the one or more tabs.

[0086] Various aspects have been described in this disclosure. These and other aspects are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS:1 . A foldable display assembly; comprising: a first housing; a second housing; a hinge mechanism coupled to the first housing and the second housing, the hinge mechanism including one or more tabs; a continuous display connected to the first housing and the second housing, the continuous display spanning the hinge mechanism; and a hinge cover including one or more snap engagement points that are positioned to engage with the one or more tabs.

2. The foldable display assembly of claim 1, wherein the hinge cover is formed of stamped sheet metal.

3. The foldable display assembly of claim 2. wherein the one or more snap engagement points are formed from the stamped sheet metal.

4. The foldable display assembly of claim 2, wherein the stamped sheet metal is made of at least one of steel or titanium alloy.

5. The foldable display assembly of any of claims 1-4 wherein the hinge cover includes one or more compressible pads positioned between the hinge cover and the hinge mechanism.

6. The foldable display assembly of claim 5, wherein a compression of the one or more compressible pads to a compressed thickness provides an opposing force that controls a directional tolerance of the hinge mechanism relative to the hinge cover.

7. The foldable display assembly of claim 5, wherein the one or more compressible pads are comprised of one or more of: adhesive pads, or foam pads.

8. The foldable display assembly of any of claims 1-7, wherein the foldable display assembly includes a space between each tab and corresponding snap engagement point, and wherein a size of the space corresponds to a position of the hinge mechanism relative to the hinge cover.

9. The foldable display assembly of any of claims 1-8, wherein the hinge cover is less than 0.4 mm in thickness.

10. The foldable display assembly of any of claims 1-9, wherein the foldable display assembly includes an enclosure, and wherein the enclosure visually occludes the one or more snap engagement points from a perspective exterior to that of the foldable display.11 . The foldable display assembly of any of claims 1-10, wherein tire one or more snap engagement points each include a rotated bend of the hinge cover.

12. The foldable display assembly of any of claims 1-11, wherein the hinge cover does not include screw bosses that are configured to receive screws to attach the hinge mechanism to the hinge cover.

13. A method, comprising: stamping sheet metal to form a hinge cover for a foldable display assembly, wherein the hinge cover includes one or more snap engagement points; and attaching the hinge cover to a hinge mechanism coupled to a first housing and a second housing of the foldable display assembly, wherein attaching the hinge cover includes engaging the one or snap engagement points to one or more tabs of the hinge mechanism.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the foldable display assembly includes a space between each tab and corresponding snap engagement point, and wherein a size of the space corresponds to a position of the hinge mechanism relative to the hinge cover.

15. A kit for attaching a hinge cover to a hinge mechanism of a foldable display assembly, the kit comprising: a first housing: a second housing; the hinge mechanism coupled to the first housing and the second housing, the hinge mechanism including one or more tabs; a continuous display connected to the first housing and the second housing, the continuous display spanning the hinge mechanism; and the hinge cover including one or more snap engagement points that are positioned to engage with the one or more tabs.

Images