Foldable Hinge Structure With Drop-Shaped Screen Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of foldable hinges in drop-shaped foldable screens leads to a cumbersome structure and potential damage to the screen due to the large number of elements required, which complicates the folding mechanism and poses a risk to the screen's integrity.
Innovation Solution
A foldable hinge design featuring a base with two folding assemblies, each comprising a rotating arm and a support member, where the support member is rotatably coupled to the rotating arm and slidably coupled to the base, forming a drop-shaped receiving space that minimizes stress on the flexible screen during folding and unfolding, thereby simplifying the structure and preventing creasing or damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If many elements are used in the foldable hinge to achieve drop-shaped folding, then the folding function is improved, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple elements into an integrated hinge structure where the base, rotating arms, and support members form a unified mechanism. The first and second folding assemblies are merged into a single hinge unit that collectively achieves the drop-shaped folding function, reducing the number of separate components needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: the rotating arms enable folding motion, the support members maintain structural integrity, and the overall configuration creates the drop-shaped folding pattern. This multi-functionality allows the hinge to achieve complex folding behavior without requiring additional specialized components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If many elements are used in the foldable hinge, then the folding function is improved, but the structure becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge is segmented into distinct functional modules: a base structure, first folding assemblies with rotating arms, and second folding assemblies with support members. Each segment performs a specific function, allowing the overall structure to achieve complex drop-shaped folding while maintaining organizational simplicity and reducing cumulative complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating arms and support members are nested within the hinge structure, with the rotating arms rotating relative to the base and the support members positioned to support the folding motion. This nested arrangement allows multiple components to occupy compact space without creating a cumbersome external structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the folding angle is too big, then the folding function is achieved, but the screen may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The support members are positioned and configured to provide protective support during the folding process. As the rotating arms move and create the drop-shaped fold, the support members cushion and distribute the mechanical stress, preventing excessive concentration of force that could damage the screen before the folding is complete.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge structure controls the folding parameters by guiding the motion of the rotating arms and support members. The geometry of the hinge components dictates the folding angle and curvature distribution, ensuring that the screen undergoes controlled deformation with appropriate stress distribution that prevents damage even at large folding angles.
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 design reduces the number of elements, creates a compact structure, and ensures the flexible screen is protected from damage by forming a drop-shaped space that evenly supports the screen during folding and unfolding, enhancing the stability and usability of the electronic device.
Implementation Method 1
the support member is rotatably coupled to a second end of the rotating arm away from the base
Implementation Method 2
the support member is slidable in a direction approaching or away from the base
Data Source
AI summary
A foldable hinge includes a base and two folding assemblies on both sides of the base and coupled to the base. The two folding assemblies are foldable relative to each other. Each folding assembly includes a rotating arm and a support member; a first end of the rotating arm is rotatably coupled to the base; the support member is rotatably coupled to a second end of the rotating arm away from the base; a side of the support member close to the base is rotatably coupled to the base and the support member is slidable in a direction approaching or away from the base. A distance between portions of two support members coupled to the rotating arms is smaller than a distance between portions of the two support members coupled to the base in response to bringing the two folding assemblies together.