Foldable Display Protection Structure for Hinge Gap Blocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable electronic devices face issues with display protection due to the absence of a rigid structure, leading to exposure of the display periphery, which can result in malfunction from foreign substances and physical damage.
Innovation Solution
A foldable electronic device design incorporating a hinge structure with a protective cap and blocking member made of elastic material to cover the bending region of the display, connecting the first and second protection covers and accommodating the display's curvature, thereby preventing damage and foreign substance ingress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the display is fixed to the housing structures with a protective layer in foldable electronic devices, then the display can be folded with the housing structures, but the periphery of the display is exposed through the disconnection space, allowing foreign substances to flow in and causing malfunction
Solution Approach 1:
A blocking member is introduced as an intermediary component between the display and the housing structures. This blocking member specifically covers the disconnection space at the periphery of the display, preventing foreign substances from entering while allowing the display to remain exposed for folding operations. The blocking member acts as a mediator that simultaneously enables both foldability and protection against contamination.
2Ease of operation
If the periphery of the display is exposed through the disconnection space to allow folding operation, then the hinge structure has degree of freedom, but the display may be damaged by fingernail or sharp tool lifting
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking member serves as a protective intermediary that covers the exposed periphery of the display. It prevents direct contact between external objects (fingernails, sharp tools) and the display surface, thereby preventing damage. At the same time, the blocking member is designed to allow the display to be lifted and folded, maintaining ease of operation while improving reliability.
3Ease of operation
If the periphery of the display is exposed through the disconnection space, then the hinge structure can rotate freely, but squashing may occur due to the gap between the display and the hinge structure
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking member acts as a protective intermediary positioned in the gap between the display and the hinge structure. It prevents external objects from causing squashing damage to the display while allowing the hinge to rotate freely. The blocking member fills the disconnection space without interfering with the hinge rotation, thereby maintaining both ease of operation and display reliability.
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 solution effectively protects the display periphery from physical damage and foreign substances, ensuring the device's functionality and aesthetic integrity during folding and unfolding operations.
Implementation Method 1
the blocking member being composed of an elastic material to bend corresponding to the foldable manner
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device is provided, which includes a first housing; a second housing; a hinge structure including a hinge module connecting the first housing and the second housing; a flexible display including a first region, a second region, and a bending region; a first protection cover disposed over the first housing; a second protection cover disposed over the second housing; a protective cap disposed over the hinge structure; and a blocking member disposed between the flexible display and the protective cap and connecting the first protection cover and the second protection cover, the blocking member being composed of an elastic material to bend corresponding to the foldable manner.