Fiber Dustproof Structure for Foldable Hinge Gaps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable electronic devices face issues with foreign matter entering the hinge structure, potentially damaging the display and hindering normal operations due to gaps formed during folding.
Innovation Solution
A dustproof structure, comprising a fiber structure, is integrated into the hinge mechanism to prevent foreign matter from entering the device, maintaining dustproof characteristics even under repeated hinge operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a foldable structure is used to increase portability, then the device can be folded and unfolded, but gaps are formed in the folding region allowing foreign matter to enter
Solution Approach 1:
A dustproof structure acts as an intermediary element positioned between the first and second housings at the hinge region. This dustproof structure includes a dustproof member that extends along the hinge rotation path, effectively blocking foreign matter from entering the device through the gap created by the foldable structure while allowing the hinge to rotate freely.
2Area of stationary object
If the screen size is increased to provide more functions, then the display area is expanded, but the device becomes less portable
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple housings (first housing and second housing) that can be folded relative to each other. The display is segmented across these housings, allowing the device to function as a large-screen device when unfolded while being compact and portable when folded. The hinge structure enables this transformation between expanded and compact states.
3Reliability
If foreign matter is introduced through the gap during hinge operation, then the display may be damaged, but preventing this requires additional protective structures
Solution Approach 1:
The dustproof member is designed as a flexible component that can bend and deform during hinge operations. This flexible dustproof structure maintains the dustproof seal while accommodating the movement between housings, protecting the display from foreign matter without requiring complex rigid protective mechanisms.
4Reliability
If the dustproof structure is made as a fiber structure, then dustproof characteristics are maintained under repeated hinge operations, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The dustproof member is constructed using fiber structures or composite materials that provide durable dustproof characteristics. These fiber-based composite materials maintain their dustproof properties even after repeated hinge operations, ensuring long-term reliability while integrating into the overall device structure.
Data Source
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AI summary
An electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a first housing, a second housing, a hinge housing disposed between the first housing and the second housing, and a flexible display at least partially disposed on the first housing and the second housing. The first housing and the second housing perform a folding or unfolding operation based on the hinge housing, and include at least one fiber structure disposed on at least a portion of a side of the first housing, the portion of the side being adjacent to the hinge housing within a predetermined distance.