Dual Axis Hinge Synchronization for Flexible Display Stress Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional inward-folding electronic devices face damage issues due to the bending of flexible displays when folded, as they are often crammed into limited spaces by casings.
Innovation Solution
A dual axis hinge with a track seat, support mechanisms, and synchronization mechanisms that allow for synchronized movement between folded and unfolded states, accommodating the bending of flexible displays without damage by using inner and outer track grooves and pivot shafts to distribute stress evenly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional inward-folding electronic devices are folded, then the device can be compacted, but the flexible displays are bent and crammed into limited spaces causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from conventional single-axis folding to dual-axis folding, adding a second dimension of movement. The support mechanisms enable the flexible display to fold along both the first direction (horizontal) and second direction (vertical), transforming the folding trajectory from a simple arc to a more complex path that reduces stress concentration on the display.
Solution Approach 2:
The support mechanisms act as intermediary components between the flexible display and the housing. These mechanisms include support bodies with curved surfaces that guide the folding motion, and linking mechanisms that coordinate the movement of multiple support mechanisms, thereby protecting the flexible display from direct contact and stress with the housing.
2Reliability
If the flexible display is allowed to bend freely, then damage is reduced, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge structure is segmented into multiple independent support mechanisms, each comprising a support body, linking mechanism, and curved surface. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function (support, connect, guide) while working together as an integrated system, making the complex structure more manageable and maintainable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions into integrated components. The support bodies simultaneously provide structural support, guide folding motion through their curved surfaces, and connect to the housing. The linking mechanisms merge the coordination of multiple support mechanisms into a single coordinated system, reducing the need for additional separate control components.
3Reliability
If support mechanisms are added to protect the flexible display, then display durability improves, but the device weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support bodies feature curved surfaces that guide the folding motion, and the overall hinge structure uses thin-walled constructions where possible. This approach provides the necessary mechanical support and guidance while minimizing material usage and overall weight compared to solid, rigid support structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge structure employs dynamic support mechanisms that move and adjust during the folding process, rather than static rigid supports. The support bodies rotate and translate along defined paths, allowing the structure to provide support only when and where needed during folding, reducing overall material requirements and weight.
Data Source
AI summary
A dual axis hinge includes: a track seat that extends along a center line, and that has two pairs of inner track grooves and two pairs of outer track grooves; two support mechanisms that are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the center line, that movably engage the inner track grooves and the outer track grooves of the track seat, and that are convertible between a folded state and an unfolded state; and two synchronization mechanisms that are respectively connected to opposite sides of the track seat, and that are configured to move in a synchronous manner such that movements of the support mechanisms relative to the track seat are synchronized.