Hinge mechanism with virtual pivots

Abstract

An example folding device includes a first housing and a second housing. The folding device further includes a flex display spanning at least part of the first housing and the second housing and a hinge assembly rotatably connected to the first housing and the second housing. The hinge assembly includes a first hinge bracket connected to the first housing, the first hinge bracket defining an outer curved channel and a hinge barrel defining an inner curved channel. The hinge assembly further includes a scoop having a first curved end configured to slide within the outer curved channel and a second curved end configured to slide within the inner curved channel, and wherein the first curved end of the scoop defines a scoop axis with a virtual pivot located exterior to the first curved end of the scoop.

Description

Docket No.: 1333-972WO01HINGE MECHANISM WITH VIRTUAL PIVOTSBACKGROUND

[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 the 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. Folding devices may generally include a hinge assembly that facilities the folding of the folding device. The hinge assembly may be connected to two or more housings (e.g., the two “halves” of the folding device) via hinge bracket. The folding devices may generally include one or more scoops that connect the hinge bracket to the hinge assembly and enable the folding of the folding device. However, in such designs the scoops may be attached to the hinge brackets with pins that take up valuable space within the folding device and that result in the need for relatively long scoops that reach the pins. Such designs may use a relatively greater amount of the limited interior volume of the folding device and reduce the amount of volume available for other components.

[0003] In accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure, a folding device may include a scoop with a virtual pivot located exterior to an end of the scoop. For instance, the scoop may have a curved end that slides within the hinge bracket rather than a pin. The scoop may have a virtual pivot that is located within the hinge bracket instead of within the scoop (e.g., within the center of a pin). The use of a scoop with a virtual pivot exterior to the scoop itself may enable the use of comparatively smaller scoops, thereby freeing up interior volume of the folding device for other components.

[0004] In an example, a folding device includes a first housing; a second housing; a flex display spanning at least part of the first housing and the second housing; and a hinge assembly rotatably connected to the first housing and the second housing, the hinge assembly comprising: a first hinge bracket connected to the first housing, the first hingeDocket No.: 1333-972WO01bracket defining an outer curved channel; a hinge barrel defining an inner curved channel; and a scoop having a first curved end configured to slide within the outer curved channel and a second curved end configured to slide within the inner curved channel, and wherein the first curved end of the scoop defines a scoop axis with a virtual pivot located exterior to the first curved end of the scoop.

[0005] In another example, a method for assembling a folding device includes inserting, by an assembler, a scoop into a hinge assembly, wherein the hinge assembly is rotatably connected to a first housing and a second housing; inserting, by the assembler, a clip bracket into the hinge assembly, wherein the clip bracket is at least partially inserted into an outer curved channel between the scoop and the hinge bracket; fixedly attaching, by the assembler, the clip bracket to the hinge assembly; and inserting, by the assembler, the scoop into an inner curved channel of a hinge barrel.

[0006] In yet another example, a kit for insertion a scoop into a hinge assembly of a folding device includes a first hinge bracket connected to a first housing of the folding device, the first hinge bracket defining an outer curved channel; a hinge barrel defining an inner curved channel; and the scoop having a first curved end configured to slide within the outer curved channel and a second curved end configured to slide within the inner curved channel, and wherein the first curved end of the scoop defines a scoop axis with a virtual pivot located exterior to the first curved end of the scoop.

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

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

[0010] FIGS. 3A-3C are schematic diagrams illustrating components of a hinge assembly of a folding device, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a clip bracket of a folding device from different viewpoints, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure.Docket No.: 1333-972WO01

[0012] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a hinge assembly of a folding device, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure

[0013] FIGS. 6A-6B are schematic diagrams illustrating components of a hinge assembly of a folding device, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example operation of assembling a folding device, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] 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. 1 A 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.

[0016] FIG. 1 A 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 and alternatively referred to as “housings” (e.g., first housing, second housing). 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 at 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 fully open, an inner surface of a first assembly 102 is coplanar with an inner surface of a second assembly 104.

[0017] 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, displaysDocket No.: 1333-972WO01having 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.

[0018] 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.

[0019] Folding device 100 includes flexible region 112. Flexible region 112 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 112 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.

[0020] Folding device 100 may include a mechanical hinge such as hinge assembly 108 that rotatably connects first assembly 102 and second assembly 104. Hinge assembly 108 may include one or more mechanical components such as mechanical moving joints. Hinge assembly 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 assembly 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 assembly 108.

[0021] Hinge assembly 108 includes hinge brackets 110, which may be brackets that connect hinge 108 to other components of folding device 100. Hinge brackets 110 may connect first housing 102 and second housing 104 to hinge assembly 108 and may facilitate the folding of folding device 100. In an example, hinge brackets 110 attach toDocket No.: 1333-972WO01first housing 102 and are rotatably connected to another component of hinge assembly 108, such as scoops 114.

[0022] Hinge assembly 108 includes scoops 114A1-114C2 (hereinafter “scoops 114”), which may be components of hinge assembly 108 that facilitate the folding of folding device 100. Scoops 114 may be components of hinge assembly 108 that rotate and slide relative to other components of hinge assembly 108 and the rest of folding device 100. For example, scoops 114 may include sections with various geometries that enable scoops 114 to slide and rotate. In addition, scoops 114 may rotatably connect components of hinge assembly 108. For instance, scoops 114 may rotatably connect hinge brackets 110 to the rest of hinge assembly 108.

[0023] Scoops 114, when rotatably connected to hinge brackets 110 using a pin, may reduce the available interior volume of folding device 100. Scoops 114 may be rotatably attached to corresponding pins within hinge brackets 110, where the center of each pin acts as a pivot for the corresponding pin. Scoops 114 may extend to the pins and consume interior volume due to the length needed to reach the pins. Such additional length may reduce the limited interior volume of folding device 100 that is available for other components.

[0024] In accordance with the aspects of this disclosure, scoops 114 include curved ends that each define a scoop axis with a virtual pivot that are exterior to the scoops. Rather than extend all the way to the pivot (e.g., a pivot centered within a pin), scoops 114 terminate at a curved end. Scoops 114 may include curved ends on both terminating ends of scoops 114. As folding device 100 is folded and unfolded, scoops 114 rotate relative to the virtual pivot that is located within hinge bracket 110.

[0025] Scoops 114 may slide within one or more channels of hinge assembly 108. Hinge assembly 108 may include channels with one or more types of geometries, such as curves, edges, and / or other shapes. One or more components of hinge assembly 108 may define the one or more channels in which scoops 114 may slide. In an example, hinge assembly 108 defines an outer curved channel and includes a hinge barrel that defines an inner curved channel. Scoops 114 slide within the inner curved channels and the outer curved channels to facilitate the folding and unfolding of folding device 100.

[0026] In some examples, folding device 100 may include both scoops 114 with virtual pivots and scoops 114 with pivots centered in a pin as a “hybrid” design of hinge assembly 108. Folding device 100 may include both types of scoops 114 to incorporate the benefits of both designs. For instance, folding device 100 may include scoops 114A1,Docket No.: 1333-972WO01114A2, 114C 1 , and 114C2 as including inboard ends with pins located at the top and bottom of folding device 100 where additional ruggedness is necessary and scoops 114B1 and 114B2 with virtual pivots where additional space is needed for other components of folding device 100 (e.g., where additional interior volume is needed for a battery and / or other components).

[0027] The aspects of this disclosure may provide one or more practical advantages. The use of scoops 114 with virtual pivots may reduce the size of scoops 114 and thereby increase the amount of available volume within folding device 100. In addition, the use of a hybrid design that incorporates scoops 114 with pins and scoops 114 with virtual pivot may enable a designer of folding device 100 to balance the benefits of both respective types of scoops 114. Further, the use of scoops that do not include pins may reduce the complexity of manufacturing and assembly of folding device 100.

[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 assembly 108 connecting first assembly 102 and second assembly 104, hinge brackets 110, flexible region 112, and scoops 114C1-114C2 (referred to as “scoops 114” hereinafter for FIG. IB). As described above with respect to FIG. 1 A, first assembly 102 and second assembly 104 may be rotatably connected to hinge assembly 108.

[0029] Hinge brackets 110 may connect scoops 114 with first assembly 102 and second assembly 104. Hinge brackets 110 may include one or more channels that capture a curved end of scoops 114 and retain scoops 114 within hinge assembly 108. For example, hinge brackets 110 may include a curved section and a clip or other components that together define a channel in which scoops 114 may slide.

[0030] Scoops 114 may slide within one or more channels of hinge assembly 108. Scoops 114 may slide within the one or more channels and enable folding device 100 to fold and unfold while supporting continuous display 106. For example, scoops 114 may slide in one or more directions when folding device 100 is being unfolded by a user. While illustrated in the context of a folding device with two housings, the aspects of this disclosure are application to folding devices with two, three, or more housings.

[0031] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a hinge assembly 208 of a folding device, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure. Hinge assembly 208 may be similar to hinge assembly 108 as illustrated in FIGS. 1 A-1B and located within a folding device, such as folding device 100 as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1B.Docket No.: 1333-972WO01

[0032] Hinge assembly 208 includes scoops 214A-B (hereinafter “scoop 214”), which may be similar to scoops 114B1-114B2 of folding device 100. Scoops 214 each include two ends that terminate scoops 214 and that may include one or more types of geometries. Scoops 214 may include ends with one or more curved components that enable scoops 214 to slide against or within other components of hinge assembly 208. For instance, scoops 214 may include a first curved or outboard end that terminates against a hinge bracket and a second curved or inboard end that terminates within a hinge barrel of hinge assembly 208.

[0033] Scoops 214 include inboard ends 216, which may be terminating ends of scoops 214 with curved geometry. Inboard ends 216 may include one or more curved geometries or components that enable scoops 214 to rotate with respect to other components of hinge assembly 208. For example, inboard ends 216 may enable scoops 214 to slide within a channel defined by hinge barrel 218.

[0034] Hinge assembly 208 includes hinge barrel 218, which may be a component of hinge assembly 208 that is rotatably connected to other components of hinge assembly 208. Hinge barrel 218 may include one or more geometries that provide channels for rotatably connected components to slide against or within hinge barrel 218. For example, hinge barrel 218 may include a geometry that defines an inner curved channel within which scoops 214 may slide. Hinge barrel 218 may enable inboard ends 216 of scoops 214 to slide within inner curved channels to facilitate the folding and unfolding of a folding device.

[0035] Scoops 214 include outboard ends 220, which may be terminating ends of scoops 214 that are opposed to inboard ends 216. Outboard ends 220 (alternatively referred to as “second curved ends” throughout) may include one or more types of curved geometries and / or curved components. Outboard ends 220 may enable scoops 214 to slide against other components of a folding device that may be at least partially included in hinge assembly 208. For example, outboard ends 220 may slide within an outer curved channel defined by hinge brackets 210.

[0036] Hinge assembly 208 includes hinge brackets 210, which may be components of hinge assembly 208 that are rotatably connected to other components of hinge assembly 208. Hinge brackets 210 may be similar to hinge brackets 110 as illustrated in FIG. 1 A and provide similar functionality. Hinge assembly 208 may include two or more hinge brackets, where a second hinge bracket is attached to a second housing of folding device 100 (e.g., an assembly of folding device 100, such as first assembly 102). For example,Docket No.: 1333-972WO01hinge brackets 210 may rotatably connect other components of hinge assembly 208 to assemblies of folding device 100 (e.g., first assembly 102 and second assembly 104). Hinge brackets 210 may define an outer curved channel within which outboard ends 220 may slide. For example, hinge brackets 210 may include an opening that outboard ends 220 slide within to facilitate the folding and unfolding of folding device 100. While illustrated as including channels, in some examples hinge brackets 210 may include pins that connect scoops 214 to hinge brackets 210.

[0037] Outboard ends 220 may define scoop axis 222 with virtual pivots 224. While illustrated with dotted lines within FIG. 2, scoop axis 222 may be a representation of an axis of rotation defined by outboard ends 220 rather than a physical component of hinge assembly 208. For example, scoops 214 may rotate with respect to scoop axis to facilitate the folding and unfolding of folding device 100.

[0038] Scoop axis 222 includes virtual pivots 224, which may be representations of centroids of scoop axis 222. Virtual pivots 224 may represent virtual points located within hinge brackets 210 around which scoops 214 rotate. In an example, scoops 214 slide within an outer channel defined by hinge brackets 210 with virtual pivots 224 as the points around which scoops 214 rotate. Scoops 214 may define the location of virtual pivots 224 as exterior to hinge assembly 208 in a direction consistent with which the first curved end of scoops 214 face (e.g., pivot win outboard ends 220). The use of scoops 214 with virtual pivots 224 may increase the amount of usable volume within folding device 100, as the region of hinge assembly 208 may be used by pins in configurations of scoops 214 that include pins.

[0039] Hinge brackets 210 include clip brackets 226, which may be components of hinge assembly 208. Clip brackets 226 may be a component with one or more geometries and attached to hinge brackets 210. For example, clip brackets 226 may include one or more folded components that attach to hinge brackets 210. Clip brackets 226 may, in part, define the out channel in which outboard ends 220 slides. In an example, clip brackets 226 occupy a portion of a space within hinge brackets 210 and retain outboard ends 220 within the space. Clip brackets 226 and hinge brackets 210 may define a channel for a portion of scoops 214, where outboard end 220 slides within the channel. For example, clip brackets 226 may resist movement in directions opposite that of a sliding direction, where the sliding direction is the direction scoops 214 slide within channels of hinge assembly 208.Docket No.: 1333-972WO01

[0040] Hinge assembly 208 includes fasteners 228, which may be components that retain other components against scoops 214. Fasteners 228 may include one or more types of fasteners, such as screws, bolts, washers, nuts, and / or other types of fasteners. Fasteners 228 may secure one or more components, such as support plates 230, against scoops 214 and may enable support plates 230 to rotate with scoops 214 during folding and unfolding of folding device 100.

[0041] Hinge assembly 208 includes support plates 230, which may be components of hinge assembly 208 that provide support to assemblies of folding device 100. Support plates 230 may include one or more components with planar sections and / or curved sections. For example, support plates 230 may include a planar section and one or more curved sections that are shaped to align with other components of hinge assembly 208. Support plates 230 may provide structural support to assemblies of folding device 100 when folding device 100 is folded and unfolded. For example, support plates 230 may distribute torque and strain during the folding process to avoid concentration of the strain immediately adjacent to fasteners 228 and other components that connect the assemblies to hinge assembly 208.

[0042] FIGS. 3A-3C are schematic diagrams illustrating a hinge assembly 308 of a folding device, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure. FIGS. 3A-3C may illustrate portions of a hinge assembly that is similar to hinge assembly 108 as illustrated in FIGS. 1 A-1B and / or hinge assembly 208 as illustrated in FIG. 2. For instance, FIGS. 3A-3C may illustrate instances of hinge assembly 308 may be a component of folding device 100 that enables the folding and unfolding of folding device 100.

[0043] FIG. 3A illustrates hinge assembly 308A during a stage of an assembly process of hinge assembly 308A. Hinge assembly 308A includes hinge bracket 310A, into which scoop 314A and clip bracket 326A are inserted. Hinge bracket 310A may be similar to hinge brackets 110 and hinge brackets 210 as illustrated in FIGS. 1 A-1B and 2, respectively, and provide similar functionality. For example, hinge bracket 310A may rotatably connect assemblies of folding device 100 to hinge assembly 308 A.

[0044] Hinge assembly 308 A includes scoop 314 A, which may be similar to scoops 114 and / or scoops 214, as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1B and 2, respectively, and provide similar functionality. In the example of FIG. 3, scoop 314A includes an inboard end 316A and an outboard end 320A, each of which may be curved sections of scoop 314A at the terminating ends of scoop 314A (e.g., the furthest apart ends of scoop 314A).Docket No.: 1333-972WO01

[0045] In the example of FIG. 3 A, outboard end 320A of scoop 314A includes pivot wing 332A. Pivot wing 332A may be a portion of scoop 314A that includes geometry configured to align with geometry of clip bracket 326 A and / or hinge bracket 310A. For example, pivot wing 332A may include a curved structure that aligns with clip bracket 326A and enables scoop 314A to slide within a channel defined by clip bracket 326A and hinge bracket 310A without scoop 314A becoming unaligned and / or pivot wing 332A escaping from the channel.

[0046] Hinge assembly 308A includes clip bracket 326A, which retains outboard end 320A (e.g., pivot wing 332A) within hinge bracket 310A. Clip bracket 326A may be similar to clip bracket 226 as illustrated in FIG. 2 and provide similar functionality. For example, clip bracket 326A may be a piece of metal with one or more bent sections that align within hinge bracket 310.

[0047] FIG. 3 A include assembly arrows 350A, which may indicate a direction in which components of hinge assembly 308A are installed, assembled, or otherwise put together. In the example of FIG. 3, assembly arrows 350A indicate a portion of hinge bracket 310A into which scoop 314A and clip bracket 326A are inserted. An assembler may insert scoop 314A into hinge bracket 310A prior to the insertion of clip bracket 326A, as clip bracket 326A may retain scoop 314A in hinge bracket 310A. As part of the assembly, the assembly may insert clip bracket 326A following the insertion of scoop 314A in a direction consistent with assembly arrows 350A and fixedly attach (e.g., metal weld, laser weld, apply adhesive, etc.) clip bracket 326A to hinge bracket 310A.

[0048] FIG. 3B illustrates an instance of hinge assembly 308A following the assembly of the components illustrated in FIG. 3A as hinge assembly 308B. In the example of FIG.3B, scoop 314B and clip bracket 326B are attached to hinge bracket 310B.

[0049] Hinge bracket 310B and clip bracket 326B may retain scoop 314B and define a range of motion for scoop 314B. Hinge bracket 310B and clip bracket 326B may retain pivot wing 332B of outboard end 320B and prevent pivot wing 332B from escaping. In addition, one or more portions of hinge bracket 310B and clip bracket 326B may limit the range of motion (e.g., degrees of rotation) of scoop 314B with respect to hinge bracket 310B.

[0050] Hinge bracket 310B and clip bracket 326B may retain pivot wing 332B within outer curved channel 338B. Outer curved channel 338B may include a channel defined by a portion of hinge bracket 310B and / or clip bracket 326B. Pivot wing 332B of scoop 314B may slide within outer curved channel 338 and enable hinge bracket 310B to rotateDocket No.: 1333-972WO01with respect to scoop 314B. In addition to pivot wing 332B, hinge bracket 310B includes inboard end 316B.

[0051] Scoop 314B may include a virtual pivot, such as virtual pivot 324B, that is located within hinge bracket 310B. The geometry of pivot wing 332B may define an axis of rotation centered at the location of virtual pivot 324B within hinge bracket 310B. For example, a degree of curvature of pivot wing 332B as facing towards virtual pivot 324B may define the location of virtual pivot 324B and an axis of rotation (e.g., scoop axis 222 as illustrated in FIG. 2). Virtual pivot 324B may be located at a point within hinge bracket 310B exterior to that of outer curved channel 338B.

[0052] FIG. 3C illustrates an instance of hinge assembly 308B as illustrated in FIG. 3B from a different viewing perspective as hinge assembly 308C. For example, FIG. 3 illustrates an identical configuration of hinge assembly 308 as FIG. 3B but from a perspective visually “underneath” hinge assembly 308C as illustrated in FIG. 3B.

[0053] Hinge assembly 308C includes hinge bracket 310C, which may be a bracket that rotatably connects scoop 314C with other assemblies of a folding device. Scoop 314C may be a component of hinge assembly 308C that include an inboard end 316C and pivot wing 332C.

[0054] Hinge assembly 308C includes clip bracket 326C, which may include one or more geometries and / or ends that retain clip bracket 326C and scoop 314C with hinge bracket 310C. In the example of FIG. 3C, clip bracket 326C includes retention tabs 334C, which may be folded or bent sections of clip bracket 326C. Retention tabs 334C may align with a portion of hinge bracket 310C and retain clip bracket 326C against hinge bracket 310C. An assembler may fixedly attach retention tabs 334C to hinge bracket 310C and enable clip bracket 326C to retain scoop 314C.

[0055] Clip bracket 326C may retain scoop 314C. Scoop 314C may slide within outer curved channel 338C within a predetermined range of motion at least partially determined by clip bracket 326C. For example, scoop 314C may slide in accordance within degrees of rotation whose limit is set by clip bracket 326C.

[0056] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a clip bracket 426 of a folding device from different viewpoints, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure. Clip bracket 426 may be similar to clip bracket 226 as illustrated in FIG. 2 and / or clip bracket 326 as illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3C.

[0057] Clip bracket 426 includes retention tabs 434, which may be similar to retention tabs 334 as illustrated in FIG. 3C. Retention tabs 434 may include one or more tabs thatDocket No.: 1333-972WO01retain clip bracket 426 when clip bracket 426 is installed or otherwise fixedly attached to a hinge bracket. In an example, an assembler places clip bracket 426 against slots of a hinge bracket that are configured to receive clip bracket 426. The assembler fixedly attaches clip bracket 426 to the hinge bracket by welding retention tabs 434 to the hinge bracket.

[0058] Clip bracket 426 includes channel tabs 436, which may be tabs or other components of clip bracket 426. Channel tabs 436 may include tabs that are folded and / or snipped portions of clip bracket 426. For example, channel tabs 436 may include a tab that is trimmed and folded at a ninety degree angle with respect to other portions of clip bracket 426. Channel tabs 436 that may define a channel of a hinge bracket. For instance, channel tabs 436 may define a side of the channel of the hinge bracket, where a side of the hinge bracket defines an opposing side of the channel.

[0059] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a hinge assembly 508 of a folding device, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure. Hinge assembly 508 may be at least partially similar to hinge assembly in previously discussed figures. For example, hinge assembly may include one or more scoops similar to scoops 214 of hinge assembly 208 as illustrated in FIG. 2.

[0060] Hinge assembly 508 includes hinge brackets 510A1-C2 (hereinafter “hinge brackets 510”), which may be similar to hinge brackets as described elsewhere in this disclosure. Hinge brackets 510 may connect assemblies of the folding device (e.g., first assembly 102 and / or second assembly 104 as illustrated in FIG. 1) to other components of hinge assembly 508. Hinge brackets 510B1, 510B2 may include geometries different from those of hinge brackets 510A1, 510A2, 510C1, 510C2 due to comparatively shorter scoops rotatably connected to hinge brackets 510B1, 510B2.

[0061] Hinge assembly 508 includes hinge barrel 518, which may be a component of hinge assembly 508 that is rotatably connected to other components of hinge assembly 508. Hinge barrel 518 may extend for the majority of the length of hinge assembly 508 and / or include one or more subsections. In the example of FIG. 5, hinge assembly 508 includes hinge barrel 518 as separated into two separate instances of hinge barrel 518. Hinge barrel 518 may include one or more components and / or geometries, such as screws, threaded components, springs, bolts, and / or other components. Hinge barrel 518 may be rotatably connected to other components of hinge assembly 508, such as scoops 514.Docket No.: 1333-972WO01

[0062] Hinge assembly 508 includes scoops 514A1-514C2 (hereinafter “scoops 514”) that include one or more types of scoops. Hinge assembly 508 may include instances of scoops 514 that include virtual pivots and instances of scoops 514 that include pins. In some examples, scoops 514 may be similar to previously described scoops, such as scoops 114 as illustrated in FIGS. 1 A-1B. Hinge assembly 508 may include a first scoop with a pivot wing and a second scoop attached to hinge bracket 510 and hinge barrel 518, where the second scoop is attached to hinge bracket 510 via a pin and, and wherein the second scoop is longer than the first scoop.

[0063] In the example of FIG. 5, scoops 514A1, 514A2, 514C1, 514C2 (hereinafter “scoops 514A, 514C”) includes pins 540, which may be components that rotatably connect hinge brackets 510 and scoops 514A, 514C. Pins 540 may include one or more types of fastener components that include at least one cylindrical subcomponent or section. For example, pins 540 may include cotter pins, dowel pins, bolts, and / or other types of components. Pins 540 may retain scoops 514A, 514C as rotatably connected to hinge brackets 510. For example, pins 540 retain outboard ends of scoops 514A, 514C within hinge brackets 510 and enable scoops 514A, 514C and hinge brackets 510 to rotate with respect to each other.

[0064] In the example of FIG. 5, scoops 514B1, 514B2 (hereinafter “scoops 514B”) include pivot wings 532. Pivot wings 532 may be similar to pivot 332 as illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3C and provide similar functionality. Pivot wings 532 may include one or more curved sections of scoops 514B that slide within a portion of hinge brackets 510. For example, pivot wings 532 may include one or more sections of curved geometry of scoops 514B that slide within a channel defined by hinge brackets 510 and clip brackets 526. While illustrated as including scoops with pivot wings 532 and scoops with pins 540 as a hybrid design, hinge assembly 508 may only include scoops 514 with pivot wings 532 in some examples.

[0065] Hinge assembly 508 may include instances of scoops 514 with comparatively longer outboard ends located near terminating ends of hinge assembly 508 (e.g., scoops 514A1-514A2, 514C1-514C2) and instances of scoops 514 with comparatively shorter outboard ends located away from the terminating ends (e.g., scoops 514B1-514B2). Hinge assembly 508 may include such as hybrid design (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 5) to provide relatively greater structural integrity and strength at the ends of hinge assembly 508 while retaining additional interior volume away from the ends of hinge assembly 508 (e.g., in area adjacent to scoops 514B1-514B2). A design or manufacturer of hingeDocket No.: 1333-972WO01assembly 508 may use a hybrid design, such as that illustrated in FIG. 5, to provide a balance between the advantages of scoops 514 with comparatively longer and shorter outboard ends.

[0066] Hinge assembly 508 includes clip bracket 526, which may be similar to clip bracket 326 as illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3C and / or clip bracket 426 as illustrated in FIG. 4. Clip bracket 526 may be a piece of metal or plastic with one or more bent or curved sections. In an example, clip brackets 526 includes metal tabs that are bent at right angles to other portions of clip brackets 526. Clip brackets 526 may define a channel of hinge brackets 510 in which pivot wings 532 may slide. For example, clip bracket 526 may, along with a portion of hinge brackets 510, define outer curved channel 528 in which pivot wings 532 may slide within hinge brackets 510 while hinge assembly 508 facilitates the folding and unfolding of a folding device.

[0067] Clip brackets 526 may retain pivot wings 532 and, by extension, scoops 514B within hinge brackets 510. Clip brackets 526 may include one or more components, such as retention tabs, that oppose pivot wings 532 from escaping outer curved channel 528. For example, clip brackets 526 may include tabs that prevent pivot wings 532 from escaping from outer curved channel 528 after clip brackets 526 have been assembled into hinge assembly 508.

[0068] Hinge assembly 508 includes inner curved channels 542, which may be channels defined by one or more components of hinge assembly 508. For example, hinge barrel 518 may define inner curved channels as curved channels in which a portion of scoops 514 are located. Inner curved channels 542 may be located at ends of scoops 514 that are opposite that of ends of scoops 514 located within outer curved channels 528. For example, first curved ends of scoops 514 may slide within outer curved channels 528 and second curved ends of scoops 514 may slide within inner curved channels 542.

[0069] As illustrated in FIG. 5, hinge assembly 508 includes scoops 514A, 514C with pins 540 and scoops 514B that do not include pins 540. A designer of hinge assembly 508 may include both types of scoops 514 in a hybrid design of hinge assembly 508 to leverage the benefits of both designs of scoops 514. For example, scoops 514A, 514C may provide increased ruggedness and durability while scoop 514B provides additional interior volume that may be used for other components of a folding device.

[0070] FIGS. 6A-6B are schematic diagrams illustrating components of a hinge assembly 608 of a folding device, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure. FIGS.6A-6B illustrate hinge assembly 608 from opposing cut-away perspectives. HingeDocket No.: 1333-972WO01assembly 608 A may be similar to hinge assembly 308 as illustrated in FIG. 3B and provide similar functionality. For example, FIGS. 6A-6B may illustrate cutaway views of an instance of hinge assembly 308 from opposing perspectives.

[0071] In the example of FIG. 6 A, hinge assembly 608 A includes hinge bracket 610A, which may be similar to previously described hinge brackets. Hinge bracket 610A may be a component of hinge assembly 608 A that connects hinge assembly 608 A to other assemblies of the folding device (e.g., first assembly 102 and / or second assembly 104 as illustrated in FIG. 1 A). For example, hinge bracket 610A may include a planar section to which another assembly of the folding device is attached.

[0072] Hinge assembly 608 A includes scoop 614A, which may be a component of hinge assembly 608 A that rotatably connects hinge bracket 610A to other components of hinge assembly 608A. For example, scoop 614A may rotatably connect hinge bracket 610A to a hinge barrel (not illustrated) of hinge assembly 608 A. Scoop 614A may be similar to other previously described instances of scoops. For example, scoop 614A may be similar to scoop 314 as illustrated in FIG. 3B and provide similar functionality.

[0073] Hinge assembly 608A includes clip bracket 626A, which may be a component of hinge assembly 608 A that includes one or more geometries. For example, clip bracket 626A may include one or more tabs that are bent, trimmed, and / or otherwise shaped parts of clip bracket 626 A. Clip bracket 626 A may retain scoop 614A within a portion of hinge bracket 610A. For example, retention tabs 634A may retain scoop 614A.

[0074] Clip bracket 626A includes retention tabs 634A, which may be tabs or other sections of clip bracket 626 A with different types of geometries. For example, retention tabs 634 may include sections of clip bracket 626A that have been trimmed and bent. Retention tabs 634A may retain clip bracket 626A in position against hinge bracket 610A.

[0075] Clip bracket 626A includes channel tabs 636A (partially obscured by scoop 614A), which may be similar to channel tabs 436 as illustrated in FIG. 4. Channel tabs 636A may be tabs or other geometries of clip bracket 626A. For example, channel tabs 636A may include tabs that are portions of clip bracket 626A are trimmed and folded to form channel tabs 636A. Channel tabs 636A may complete an opposite half of outer curved channel 638 A and at least partially retain scoop 614A.

[0076] Hinge assembly 608 A includes outer curved channel 638 A, which may be a channel or other space within hinge bracket 610A. Hinge bracket 610A and / or clip bracket 626 A may define outer curved channel 638 A. For example, clip bracket 626 A may define a side of outer curved channel 638 A and hinge bracket 610A may define anDocket No.: 1333-972WO01opposing side of outer curved channel 638A. Channel tabs 636A may define at least a portion of outer curved channel 638 A. For instance, channel tabs 636 A may oppose movement of scoop 614A (e.g., pivot wing 632A) in a direction consistent with the location of channel tabs 636A (e.g., prevent pivot wing 632A from moving in a direction that is not consistent with sliding within outer curved channel 638 A).

[0077] In the example of FIG. 6A, slide arrows 644 indicate directions in which pivot wing pivot 632A of scoop 614A may slide within outer curved channel 638. Slide arrows 644 may represent directions that pivot wing and by extension scoop 614 may slide when a folding device folds and unfolds. For example, scoop 614 may slide in a direction consistent with a first of slide arrows 644 when the folding device unfolds and slide in an opposite direction consistent with a second of slide arrows 644 when the folding device folds.

[0078] FIG. 6B illustrates a cutaway of hinge assembly 608B from a perspective opposing that of the perspective illustrated in FIG. 6A. Hinge assembly 608B may be an instance of hinge assembly 608A and provide similar functionality. For instance, an assembler may include hinge assembly 608B in a folding device, such as folding device 100 as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1B.

[0079] Hinge assembly 608B includes hinge bracket 610B and scoop 614B, which may be rotatably connected. Hinge bracket 610B may be connected to other assemblies of the folding device (e.g., first assembly 102, second assembly 104, etc.). Scoop 614B may be rotatably connected to hinge bracket 610B and other component(s) of hinge assembly 608B, such as a hinge barrel (not illustrated).

[0080] Hinge assembly 608B includes clip bracket 626B, which may be an instance of clip bracket 626A illustrated from a different cutaway perspective. Clip bracket 626B may be a component of hinge assembly 608B that includes one or more tabs and / or retention features. In an example, clip bracket 626B includes tabs that define a channel for pivot wing 632B and that retain clip bracket 626B against hinge bracket 610B. An assembler may fixedly attach clip bracket 626B to hinge bracket 610B during an assembly process of hinge assembly 608B.

[0081] Hinge assembly 608B includes retention feature 646B, which may be a component of hinge bracket 610B that retains scoop 614B. Retention feature 646B may include one or more types of components or geometries of hinge bracket 610B, such as lips, hooks, edges, and / or other types of geometries. For example, retention feature 646B may be a trimmed edge of hinge bracket 610B configured to retain an edge or other partDocket No.: 1333-972WO01of pivot wing 632B. Retention feature 646B may prevent scoop 614B from sliding along a scoop axis beyond a predetermined range of motion. For example, retention feature 646B may prevent pivot wing 632B from sliding within outer curved channel 638 beyond a predetermined point.

[0082] Hinge assembly 608B includes channel tab 636B, which may be a tab of clip bracket 626B. For example, channel tab 636B may be a trimmed and bent portion of clip bracket 626B. Channel tab 636B may align with a portion of scoop 614B within outer curved channel 638B.

[0083] Pivot wing 632B may slide within outer curved channel 638B in one or more directions consistent with slide arrows 644B. Pivot wing 632B may slide within outer curved channel 638B to facilitate the folding and unfolding of folding device 100, where clip bracket 626B and hinge bracket 610B (e.g., retention feature 646B) define outer curved channel 638B. Pivot wing 632B may slide within outer curved channel 638B in accordance with a scoop axis, where the scoop axis includes a virtual pivot that is exterior to scoop 614B. For example, scoop 614B may rotate around a portion hinge bracket 610B with respect to a virtual pivot located at a point with hinge bracket 610B.

[0084] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example operation of assembling a folding device, in accordance with one or more aspects of this disclosure. FIG. 7 is described in the context of FIG. 3 A.

[0085] An assembler inserts a scoop, such as scoop 314A into a hinge assembly, such as hinge assembly 308A (702). Hinge assembly 308A may be rotatably connected to a first housing and a second housing (e.g., first assembly 102 and / or second assembly 104 as illustrated in FIG. 1). The assembler may insert scoop 314A into a channel defined by hinge bracket 310 and / or other components of hinge assembly 308A. In an example, the assembler inserts pivot wing 332A into hinge bracket 310A as part of assembling hinge assembly 310A.

[0086] The assembler inserts a clip bracket, such as clip bracket 326A into hinge assembly 308A (704). The assembler may partially insert clip bracket 326A into an outer curved channel between scoop 314A and hinge bracket 310A. For example, hinge bracket 310A may define a channel that is a gap within hinge bracket 310A.

[0087] The assembler fixedly attaches clip bracket 326A to hinge assembly 310A (706). The assembler may fixedly attach clip bracket 326A in one or more ways, such as welding, applying adhesives, etc. The assembler may fixedly attach one or more tabs of clip bracket 326 A to hinge bracket 310.Docket No.: 1333-972WO01

[0088] The assembler inserts scoop 314A into an inner curved channel of a hinge barrel (708). The assembler may insert a curved inboard end of scoop 314A into a curved channel of the hinge barrel to rotatably connect scoop 314A to other portions of hinge assembly 308A. In some examples, the assembler may insert scoop 341 A into the inner curved channel prior to inserting scoop 314A into hinge assembly 308 A.

[0089] The following numbered example may illustrate one or more aspects of this disclosure:

[0090] Example 1 : A folding device includes a first housing; a second housing; a flex display spanning at least part of the first housing and the second housing; and a hinge assembly rotatably connected to the first housing and the second housing, the hinge assembly includes a first hinge bracket connected to the first housing, the first hinge bracket defining an outer curved channel; a hinge barrel defining an inner curved channel; and a scoop having a first curved end configured to slide within the outer curved channel and a second curved end configured to slide within the inner curved channel, and wherein the first curved end of the scoop defines a scoop axis with a virtual pivot located exterior to the first curved end of the scoop.

[0091] Example 2: The folding device of example 1, wherein the hinge assembly further comprises a clip bracket at least partially located in the outer curved channel between the scoop and the hinge bracket.

[0092] Example 3: The folding device of example 2, wherein the clip bracket is fixedly attached to the hinge bracket during an assembly process of the hinge assembly, and wherein, when fixedly attached to the hinge bracket, the clip bracket retains the first curved end of the scoop within the outer curved channel.

[0093] Example 4: The folding device of example 2, wherein the scoop includes a pivot wing, and wherein the pivot wing aligns with a geometry of the clip bracket.

[0094] Example 5: The folding device of example 4, wherein the scoop is inserted into the hinge bracket prior to the insertion of the pivot wing during an assembly process of the hinge assembly.

[0095] Example 6: The folding device of example 2, wherein the first hinge bracket and the clip bracket define a channel for a portion of the scoop, and wherein the first curved end of the scoop slides within the channel.

[0096] Example 7: The folding device of example 6, wherein the clip bracket resists movement in directions opposite that of a sliding direction, wherein the sliding direction is the direction the scoop slides within the channel.Docket No.: 1333-972WO01

[0097] Example 8: The folding device of any of examples 1-7, wherein the hinge assembly includes a second hinge bracket connected to the second housing.

[0098] Example 9: The folding device of any of examples 1-8, wherein the virtual pivot is located at a point within the first hinge bracket, and wherein the scoop is between the point and the hinge barrel.

[0099] Example 10: The folding device of any of examples 1-9, wherein the virtual pivot is exterior to the hinge assembly in a direction consistent with a direction with which the first curved end of the scoop faces.

[0100] Example 11 : The folding device of any of examples 1-10, wherein the first hinge bracket includes a retention feature, and wherein the retention feature prevents the scoop from sliding along the scoop axis beyond a predetermined range of motion.

[0101] Example 12: The folding device of any of examples 1-11, wherein the hinge assembly includes a second scoop attached to the hinge bracket and the hinge barrel, wherein the second scoop is attached to the hinge bracket via a pin and, and wherein the second scoop is longer than the first scoop.

[0102] Example 13: A method for assembling a folding device includes inserting, by an assembler, a scoop into a hinge assembly, wherein the hinge assembly is rotatably connected to a first housing and a second housing; inserting, by the assembler, a clip bracket into the hinge assembly, wherein the clip bracket is at least partially inserted into an outer curved channel between the scoop and the hinge bracket; fixedly attaching, by the assembler, the clip bracket to the hinge assembly; and inserting, by the assembler, the scoop into an inner curved channel of a hinge barrel.

[0103] Example 14: The method of example 13, wherein the scoop includes a pivot wing, and wherein the pivot wing aligns with a geometry of the clip bracket.

[0104] Example 15: A kit for inserting a scoop into a hinge assembly of a folding device includes a first hinge bracket connected to a first housing of the folding device, the first hinge bracket defining an outer curved channel; a hinge barrel defining an inner curved channel; and the scoop having a first curved end configured to slide within the outer curved channel and a second curved end configured to slide within the inner curved channel, and wherein the first curved end of the scoop defines a scoop axis with a virtual pivot located exterior to the first curved end of the scoop.

[0105] Various aspects have been described in this disclosure. These and other aspects are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

Docket No.: 1333-972WO01CLAIMS:

1. A folding device comprising:a first housing;a second housing;a flex display spanning at least part of the first housing and the second housing; anda hinge assembly rotatably connected to the first housing and the second housing, the hinge assembly comprising:a first hinge bracket connected to the first housing, the first hinge bracket defining an outer curved channel;a hinge barrel defining an inner curved channel; anda scoop having a first curved end configured to slide within the outer curved channel and a second curved end configured to slide within the inner curved channel, and wherein the first curved end of the scoop defines a scoop axis with a virtual pivot located exterior to the first curved end of the scoop.

2. The folding device of claim 1, wherein the hinge assembly further comprises a clip bracket at least partially located in the outer curved channel between the scoop and the hinge bracket.

3. The folding device of claim 2, wherein the clip bracket is fixedly attached to the hinge bracket during an assembly process of the hinge assembly, and wherein, when fixedly attached to the hinge bracket, the clip bracket retains the first curved end of the scoop within the outer curved channel.

4. The folding device of claim 2, wherein the scoop includes a pivot wing, and wherein the pivot wing aligns with a geometry of the clip bracket.

5. The folding device of claim 4, wherein the scoop is inserted into the hinge bracket prior to the insertion of the pivot wing during an assembly process of the hinge assembly.Docket No.: 1333-972WO016. The folding device of claim 2, wherein the first hinge bracket and the clip bracket define a channel for a portion of the scoop, and wherein the first curved end of the scoop slides within the channel.

7. The folding device of claim 6, wherein the clip bracket resists movement in directions opposite that of a sliding direction, wherein the sliding direction is the direction the scoop slides within the channel.

8. The folding device of any of claims 1-7, wherein the hinge assembly includes a second hinge bracket connected to the second housing.

9. The folding device of any of claims 1-8, wherein the virtual pivot is located at a point within the first hinge bracket, and wherein the scoop is between the point and the hinge barrel.

10. The folding device of any of claims 1-9, wherein the virtual pivot is exterior to the hinge assembly in a direction consistent with a direction with which the first curved end of the scoop faces.

11. The folding device of any of claims 1-10, wherein the first hinge bracket includes a retention feature, and wherein the retention feature prevents the scoop from sliding along the scoop axis beyond a predetermined range of motion.

12. The folding device of any of claims 1-11, wherein the hinge assembly includes a second scoop attached to the hinge bracket and the hinge barrel, wherein the second scoop is attached to the hinge bracket via a pin and, and wherein the second scoop is longer than the first scoop.

13. A method for assembling a folding device comprising:inserting, by an assembler, a scoop into a hinge assembly, wherein the hinge assembly is rotatably connected to a first housing and a second housing;inserting, by the assembler, a clip bracket into the hinge assembly, wherein the clip bracket is at least partially inserted into an outer curved channel between the scoop and the hinge bracket;Docket No.: 1333-972WO01fixedly attaching, by the assembler, the clip bracket to the hinge assembly; and inserting, by the assembler, the scoop into an inner curved channel of a hinge barrel.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the scoop includes a pivot wing, and wherein the pivot wing aligns with a geometry of the clip bracket.

15. A kit for inserting a scoop into a hinge assembly of a folding device, the kit comprising:a first hinge bracket connected to a first housing of the folding device, the first hinge bracket defining an outer curved channel;a hinge barrel defining an inner curved channel; andthe scoop having a first curved end configured to slide within the outer curved channel and a second curved end configured to slide within the inner curved channel, and wherein the first curved end of the scoop defines a scoop axis with a virtual pivot located exterior to the first curved end of the scoop.

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