Cam-Supported Hinge Structure for Compact Foldable Displays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable electronic devices with narrow folding areas face challenges in arranging structures to support hinge motions due to limited space, making it difficult to optimize the arrangement and function of hinge structures.
Innovation Solution
A hinge structure comprising a first rotary bracket, a second rotary bracket, a fixed bracket, a first rotary member, a second rotary member, arms with cam structures, and elastic bodies, which work together to support hinge motions and maintain the display in various states, including flat, folded, and angled positions, while minimizing space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple structures are arranged to support hinge motions, then the hinge structure can maintain display integrity in various states, but the device complexity increases and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple support structures (first and second rotary brackets, first and second rotary members, arms with cam structures, and elastic bodies) into an integrated hinge assembly that works together to support the display in various states (flat, folded, and angled positions) while maintaining compact space utilization
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple structures are arranged to support hinge motions, then the hinge structure can provide various functions, but the available space in narrow folding areas is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where rotary members are positioned within brackets, arms are connected to rotary members, and cam structures are integrated within the arms, creating a compact hierarchical structure that maximizes functionality within limited folding space
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge structure utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement with components positioned at different heights and angles, allowing multiple structures to coexist in narrow folding areas by exploiting vertical and angular dimensions rather than only horizontal space
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The proposed hinge structure effectively optimizes the arrangement of components to support hinge motions, allowing for efficient folding and unfolding of the device, maintaining display integrity, and providing a compact form factor.
Implementation Method 1
a first elastic body that is mounted on the first rotary member and that supports at least one side of the cam part in a direction toward the first arm, a second elastic body that is mounted on the second rotary member and that supports at least an opposite side of the cam part in a direction toward the second arm
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge structure includes a first rotary bracket that rotates about a first virtual axis and a second rotary bracket that rotates about a second virtual axis The hinge structure also includes a fixed bracket that includes the first rotary bracket and the second rotary bracket fixed thereto. The hinge further structure includes a first rotary member, a second rotary member, a first arm and a second arm. Additionally, the hinge structure includes a cam part that includes bumpy structures. A first elastic body is mounted on the first rotary member and supports at least one side of the cam part and second elastic body is mounted on the second rotary member and supports at least an opposite side of the cam part. The hinge structure also includes a support bracket that supports the first elastic body and the second elastic body.