Curved Display Shield Mechanism for Gap Sealing

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Display apparatuses with display modules that can transform between flat and curved states lack effective solutions to prevent foreign materials from entering through gaps between the module and the case when in the curved state.

Innovation Solution

The display apparatus incorporates a base frame, shield members, and cover units that rotate and spread to cover the gaps between the display module and the case when in the curved state, utilizing guide pins and hinge grooves for support and movement, ensuring that foreign materials are excluded.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the display module is transformed to a curved state, then the user can feel a three-dimensional effect, but foreign materials can enter through spaces between the display module and the case

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay module state transformationVSAvoidforeign material intrusion
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The shield member is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position based on the display module's state. When the display module curves, the shield member moves to cover the lateral edges and block foreign material entry paths, resolving the contradiction between maintaining display functionality and preventing contamination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The shield member acts as an intermediary element between the display module and the external environment. It specifically targets and blocks the lateral edge regions where foreign materials would otherwise enter, providing localized protection without interfering with the overall curved display functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If shield members are added to cover the lateral edges, then foreign material entry is prevented, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveforeign material intrusionVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The shield member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it blocks foreign material entry at the lateral edges, maintains the aesthetic appearance of the curved display, and structurally supports the transformation mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The shield member is designed as a thin, flexible component that can adapt to the curved state of the display module. This design approach minimizes the added bulk and complexity while effectively performing the protective function, as the thin film structure can conform to the dynamic shape changes without requiring complex mechanical support.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Data Source

PatentEP3092634B1Display apparatus
Publication Date: 2019.03.13 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • EP3092634B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3092634B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3092634B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Disclosed herein is a display apparatus including: a display module configured to be changed to a curved state, the display module comprising a first lateral edge and a second lateral edge, the first and the second lateral edges protruding forward in the curved state; a base frame disposed behind the display module; a shield member rotatably connected to lateral ends in a widthwise direction of the display module; and a cover unit having a first end connected to the shield member and a second end opposite from the first end connected to the base frame and configured to spread and cover spaces between the display module and the base frame at the lateral ends of the display unit when the display module is in the curved state.