Curved LCD Curvature Adjustment via Thermal Bracing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional curved liquid crystal display devices have fixed curvature, limiting user-adjustability and resulting in constrained view angles and high production costs due to complex structures.

Innovation Solution

A curvature adjustment structure featuring a backplane with bracing assemblies and a cooling chip array that utilizes thermal expansion and contraction to dynamically adjust the curvature, allowing for easy and continuous curvature changes through controlled temperature manipulation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Shape

If a support rack with specific curve is mounted to force the backplane to deform, then the backplane achieves a curved shape, but the curvature is fixed and cannot be adjusted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecurved shape of backplaneVSAvoidadjustability of curvature
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing the fixed support rack with a dynamic curvature adjustment mechanism. The backplane is equipped with multiple support points that can independently adjust their positions, allowing the curvature to be dynamically changed according to user needs. This transforms the static curved structure into a flexible, adjustable system that can adapt to different viewing preferences.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by enabling continuous adjustment of curvature parameters. Instead of being constrained to a single fixed curve, the system allows modification of curvature radius and support point positions, providing users with the ability to change display parameters to suit different viewing conditions and preferences.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Shape

If a support rack with specific curve is mounted to force the backplane to deform, then the backplane achieves a curved shape, but the structure becomes complicated and cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecurved shape of backplaneVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the backplane support system into multiple independent support points or modules. Each support point can be individually adjusted, replacing the need for a complex integrated support rack. This modular approach simplifies the overall structure while enabling flexible curvature adjustment through coordinated movement of discrete elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the complex mechanical support rack system with a simpler mechanism, potentially using actuators or adjustable feet at discrete support points. This substitution reduces structural complexity by eliminating the need for a rigid, pre-formed curved rack while achieving the same backplane deformation through controlled local adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Shape

If a support rack with specific curve is mounted to force the backplane to deform, then the backplane achieves a curved shape, but the view angle is subjected to undesired constraint

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecurved shape of backplaneVSAvoidviewing flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by enabling real-time adjustment of the backplane curvature to optimize viewing angles for different user positions. Instead of being constrained to a fixed curve, the system can dynamically modify the curvature profile to accommodate varying viewing conditions, thereby improving ease of operation and user comfort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by allowing adjustment of curvature parameters to optimize viewing experience. Users can modify the curvature radius and support point configurations to achieve optimal viewing angles for different seating positions, transforming the constrained fixed-angle system into a flexible, user-adaptable display.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Enables flexible curvature adjustment, enhancing user experience and simplifying the manufacturing process by allowing for customizable viewing angles without increasing production complexity or costs.

Implementation Method 1

through energizing the cooling chip array, the heat absorption surfaces and the heat dissipation surfaces respectively affect temperatures of the first bracing member and the second bracing member to cause thermal expansion and contraction of the first and second bracing members

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal expansion: Thermal Expansion

Implementation Method 2

through energizing the cooling chip array, the heat absorption surfaces and the heat dissipation surfaces respectively affect temperatures of the first bracing member and the second bracing member to cause thermal expansion and contraction of the first and second bracing members

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal contraction: Thermal Contraction

Data Source

PatentUS9235078B2Curvature adjustment structure of curved liquid crystal display device
Publication Date: 2016.01.12 TCL CHINA STAR OPTOELECTRONICS TECHNOLOGY CO LTD
  • US9235078B2 patent drawing
  • US9235078B2 patent drawing
  • US9235078B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention provides a curvature adjustment structure of a curved liquid crystal display device, which includes: a backplane (1) and at least one bracing assembly (3) fixedly mounted to the backplane (1). Each bracing assembly (3) includes a first bracing member (31) in contact engagement with the backplane (1), a second bracing member (33) opposite to the first bracing member (31) and distant from the backplane (1), and a cooling chip array (35) arranged between the first and second bracing members (31, 33). The cooling chip array (35) includes a plurality of cooling chips (2). Each of the cooling chips (2) includes a heat absorption surface (22) and an opposite heat dissipation surface (24). The heat absorption surface (22) and the heat dissipation surface (24) of each of the cooling chips (2) are respectively in engagement with the first and second bracing members (31, 33), whereby through energizing the cooling chip array (35), the first and second bracing members (31, 33) are respectively caused to undergo thermal expansion and contraction to achieve curving and deformation of the bracing assembly (3) so as to forcibly change the curvature of the backplane (1).