Adjustable Support Units for Foldable Display Flatness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable display devices face challenges in maintaining the flatness and integrity of the display panel when unfolded, as the area accommodating the folded portion is not adequately supported, leading to potential damage from external forces.
Innovation Solution
A foldable display device design featuring a hinge unit, set frames, and adjustable support units that support the display panel in the unfolded state while accommodating the folded area by retracting into the set frame in the folded state, ensuring the display panel remains flat and reducing damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a space for accommodating the folded area of the display panel is formed in the set frame, then the display panel can be folded with proper curvature, but the area of the display panel overlapping this space is not supported when unfolded
Solution Approach 1:
The support unit is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to change position between folded and unfolded states. In the unfolded state, the support unit extends to support the display panel area that would otherwise be unsupported, while in the folded state, it retracts to allow the display panel to curve properly without obstruction.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the set frame is modified to accommodate the folded display panel, then the curvature radius is secured, but the display panel flatness in the unfolded state deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support unit moves along the thickness dimension of the set frame, extending outward when the display is unfolded to maintain flatness, and retracting inward when folded to accommodate curvature. This dimensional movement allows the system to satisfy both flatness and curvature requirements without compromising either state.
Data Source
AI summary
A foldable display device is discussed, which is to be switched between a folded state and an unfolded state, the foldable display device including adjustable support units to support a display panel of the foldable display device together with an inner surface of set frames in the unfolded state, the adjustable support units being connected to a hinge unit to enable the adjustable support units to retreat to the inner surface of the set frames in the folded state. In the unfolded state, the adjustable support units and the set frames support the entire area of the display panel to be flat to reduce damage of the display panel.