Actuator-Based Hinge Structure for Foldable Displays
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable electronic devices face issues with portability due to larger screens, dust generation, and wear-induced smoothness deterioration in cam operations, which restrict the holding angle in the free-stop state.
Innovation Solution
A hinge structure using actuators to control folding and unfolding, eliminating the need for cam structures and elastic members, allowing for various holding angles and smooth operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a cam structure with elastic members is used for hinge operation, then the hinge can perform folding and unfolding, but friction is generated which produces dust and causes wear over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional cam structure with a magnetic coupling mechanism. Magnets are embedded in the hinge structure to provide magnetic attraction forces that enable the folding and unfolding operations, eliminating the need for mechanical cam surfaces that generate friction and wear.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary force between the hinge components. The magnetic attraction provides the necessary holding force without direct mechanical contact, thereby eliminating friction-based dust generation and wear problems inherent in cam structures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a cam structure is used for free-stop function, then the device can be held at a specific angle, but the holding angle is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic magnetic coupling system where the magnetic attraction force can be adjusted to enable free-stop at multiple different angles. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the hinge to hold at various angles without requiring a complex multi-position cam structure.
3Area of moving object
If the screen size is increased to provide wider display, then more functions can be accessed, but portability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the display into multiple segments that can be folded together. The hinge structure enables the display to be segmented across multiple housings, allowing a large total screen area while maintaining a compact folded form factor that preserves portability.
Data Source
AI summary
According to certain embodiments, a foldable electronic device comprises: a first housing; a second housing; a display, wherein at least a portion of the display is positioned on the first housing and at least another portion of the display is disposed on the second housing; and a hinge structure coupling the first housing and the second housing; and wherein the hinge structure includes: a first rotary member coupled to the first housing; a second rotary member coupled to the second housing; a first arm part at least partially inserted onto a first rotary shaft; a second arm part at least partially inserted onto a second rotary shaft; a first link coupling the first rotary member and the first arm part; a second link coupling the second rotary member and the second arm part; a first actuator coupled to the first link and configured to provide rotational force; and a second actuator coupled to the second link and configured to provide rotational force.