Asymmetric Foldable Hinge Structure for Lighter Display Accommodation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current foldable electronic devices have complex structures due to symmetric hinge mechanisms, which complicate the design and increase the weight and space occupied by the hinge mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A foldable electronic device with an asymmetric hinge mechanism that includes a base with a first arc-shaped groove and a main shaft module with first and second rotating assemblies, allowing for a simplified structure and reduced weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a symmetric hinge mechanism is designed to form display accommodating space, then the display accommodating requirement is met, but the structure of the foldable electronic device becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by designing the hinge mechanism with an asymmetric structure where the first housing has a first appearance surface and the second housing has a second appearance surface at different positions relative to the flexible display. This asymmetric design simplifies the overall structure while still forming the necessary display accommodating space when the device is folded, thereby resolving the contradiction between meeting display requirements and reducing structural complexity.
2Reliability
If a symmetric hinge mechanism is designed to form display accommodating space, then the display accommodating requirement is met, but the weight of the hinge mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric hinge mechanism design allows for optimized material distribution and reduced component redundancy. By positioning the first and second appearance surfaces differently relative to the flexible display, the structure achieves the required display accommodating function with fewer and lighter components, thereby reducing the overall weight of the hinge mechanism.
3Reliability
If a symmetric hinge mechanism is designed to form display accommodating space, then the display accommodating requirement is met, but the space occupied by the hinge mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric design of the hinge mechanism optimizes the spatial arrangement of components. The first housing and second housing are positioned asymmetrically relative to the flexible display, allowing the display accommodating space to be formed more efficiently. This reduces the overall volume occupied by the hinge mechanism while maintaining the necessary functionality.
4Device complexity
If the first housing and second housing are designed with unequal structures, then the structure is simplified and thickness is reduced, but the appearance symmetry is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making the first appearance surface and second appearance surface different only in their specific positioning and local characteristics, while maintaining overall structural harmony. The first appearance surface is positioned at a first distance from the flexible display and the second appearance surface at a second distance, creating local asymmetry that simplifies the structure and reduces thickness, while the overall device appearance remains balanced and aesthetically pleasing.
Data Source
AI summary
A foldable electronic device includes a first housing, a second housing, a hinge mechanism, a flexible display, and an end cover. The first housing and the second housing are unfolded and folded relative to each other via the hinge mechanism. The flexible display continuously covers the first housing, the second housing, and the hinge mechanism, and is fastened to the first housing and the second housing. The hinge mechanism includes a base, and at least a part of the base can be accommodated in a first accommodating groove of the end cover. A side that is of the first housing and that is away from the flexible display is provided with a first appearance surface, and the base is provided with a first arc-shaped groove.