Elastic Wave Deformation Detection for Foldable Screens

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current detection devices, such as rotary encoders and gyro sensors, are inadequate for accurately detecting the positional relationship between two members, like screens in a foldable smartphone, as they fail to effectively measure deformation amounts and angles formed by folding mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

A deformation amount detection device comprising an input and output with deformation portions and a flexible transmission portion that uses elastic waves to detect positional changes, employing a piezoelectric film to generate and transmit signals, allowing for the detection of deformation amounts from a reference state, such as angles formed by folding screens.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If rotary encoders or gyro sensors are used to detect positional relationships, then detection functionality is provided, but measurement precision is insufficient for foldable device deformation detection

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeformation amount detection precisionVSAvoiddetection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical detection systems (rotary encoders, gyro sensors) with an elastic wave-based detection system. The elastic wave propagation characteristics through the flexible transmission portion provide precise measurement of deformation amounts and positional relationships without the limitations of mechanical contact systems.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes changes in elastic wave propagation parameters (transmission time, frequency, amplitude) as the flexible transmission portion deforms. By measuring these parameter changes, the system accurately detects deformation amounts and positional relationships with high precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If flexible transmission portion is used to enable deformation detection, then adaptability to foldable structures is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to foldable structuresVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The flexible transmission portion serves multiple functions simultaneously: it transmits elastic waves for detection, accommodates folding movements, and provides structural connectivity. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a flexible transmission portion that can deform elastically to accommodate foldable device structures. This flexible component enables the detection system to adapt to various deformation states (folding, twisting, stretching) without requiring complex mechanical linkages or multiple rigid components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Use of energy by moving object

If elastic wave transmission method is used, then power consumption is reduced, but detection precision must be maintained

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidpositional relationship detection precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses periodic excitation signals to generate elastic waves at controlled intervals rather than continuous operation. This periodic action reduces power consumption while maintaining detection precision by measuring the characteristics of each elastic wave pulse as it propagates through the flexible transmission portion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic wave serves as a information carrier that copies the deformation state of the flexible transmission portion. By measuring the wave's propagation characteristics, the system obtains precise positional information without requiring continuous power input to mechanical actuators or sensors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

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 precise detection of positional relationships and deformation amounts, improving accuracy and reducing power consumption, with the ability to detect angles and other deformation types like twists or stretches, suitable for foldable devices and robotic joints.

Implementation Method 1

a first deformation portion; an output including a second electrode and a second deformation portion... the first deformation portion is deformed by the input signal to generate an elastic wave

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPiezoelectric effect: Piezoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS20240255282A1Deformation amount detection device
Publication Date: 2024.08.01 MURATA MFG CO LTD
  • US20240255282A1 patent drawing
  • US20240255282A1 patent drawing
  • US20240255282A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An input includes a first electrode and a first deformation portion. An output includes a second electrode and a second deformation portion. A transmission portion enables transmission of an elastic wave from the first deformation portion to the transmission portion and transmission of an elastic wave from the transmission portion to the second deformation portion. In operation, an input signal is input to the first electrode that deforms the first deformation portion to generate an elastic wave. The transmission portion transmits the elastic wave from the first deformation portion to the second deformation portion that is deformed by the elastic wave to generate an output signal to the second electrode. The detection unit detects a deformation amount from the reference state of the transmission portion based on the output signal.