Deformable Display Module Curvature Control Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional display apparatuses can only deform their display modules to be in a flat surface or a curved surface with sides protruding forward, lacking the ability to retract sides backward, which may expose the rear side and compromise aesthetics when not in use.

Innovation Solution

A display apparatus with a driving apparatus and deformation guides that allow the display module to be deformed into a flat surface, a first curved surface with sides protruding forward, and a second curved surface with sides retracting backward, utilizing a base member, rotating links, and a driving motor to control the curvature, and includes a method for controlling the display unit to change states based on power availability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If the display module is deformed to a curved surface state with sides protruding forward, then viewing angle and user visibility are improved, but the rear side of the display unit becomes exposed to the outside compromising aesthetics

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveviewing angleVSAvoidaesthetics
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The display module employs a deformable structure that can dynamically change its curvature state. The module transitions between a first curved surface state (with sides protruding forward for better viewing) and a second curved surface state (with sides retracting backward to hide the rear side), allowing it to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements versus aesthetic considerations when not in use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of manufacture

If the display module is deformed to protrude forward, then user visibility is improved, but the space occupied by the display increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser visibilityVSAvoidspace occupied
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The deformable display module can switch between different curvature states to optimize space utilization. When not in active use, the module transitions to the second curved surface state where sides retract backward, reducing the overall space occupied and allowing the display to be positioned closer to walls or surfaces, thereby minimizing the volume it occupies in the room.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If the display module is made deformable with multiple curvature states, then versatility and adaptability are improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecurvature statesVSAvoidstructure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The display module utilizes a flexible, deformable structure that can be bent into different curvature states. This flexible design allows the module to achieve multiple surface configurations (flat, first curved, second curved) without requiring complex mechanical assemblies, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The module employs a dynamic deformation mechanism that allows smooth transitions between different curvature states. By using a deformable structure with controlled bending capabilities, the system achieves multiple operational states without requiring separate physical components for each state, thus managing complexity while providing adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 the display unit to be deformed into various curvature states, including a second curved surface state where the rear side is hidden, improving aesthetics and usability by allowing the display to occupy less space when not in use, and adjusting viewing angles and user visibility accordingly.

Implementation Method 1

a driving motor configured to generate power, a pinion rotated by the driving motor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

one pair of deformation guides configured to deform the display module... The one pair of deformation guides may include a plurality of links that extend in left side and right side directions and rotatably coupled to each other

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical linkage: Four-Bar Linkage

Data Source

PatentUS10484642B2Display apparatus and method for controlling the same
Publication Date: 2019.11.19 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US10484642B2 patent drawing
  • US10484642B2 patent drawing
  • US10484642B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed is a display apparatus including a display module and a driving apparatus configured to deform the display module. The display module is deformed by the driving apparatus so as to be in a flat surface state, a first curved surface state in which both sides of the display module protrude forward, and a second curved surface state in which the both sides of the display module retreat backward.