Flex Cable Sealing Structure for Foldable Display Waterproofing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable computing devices face challenges in protecting delicate components like flex cables and hinges from dust and water intrusion, which can lead to damage and increased manufacturing costs due to the need for complex sealing components.
Innovation Solution
A foldable display sub-assembly design that includes a flex cable holder, a fixer component with hooks, and an adhesive filler to secure and guide the flex cable, providing dust-and water-resistance without a costly waterproof frame, simplifying assembly, and reducing strain on the cable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a waterproof frame is used to protect the flex cable and hinge mechanism, then water and dust resistance is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible display that spans across the hinge mechanism to create a natural sealing barrier. The flexible display acts as a thin film that prevents water and dust intrusion without requiring a complex waterproof frame structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible display serves multiple functions: it provides the user interface display function and simultaneously acts as a waterproof seal for the hinge mechanism. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate waterproofing components.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If additional waterproofing components are added to protect the flex cable, then water and dust resistance is improved, but available volume within the assembly decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible display itself serves as the protective barrier, utilizing the existing thin film structure rather than adding bulky waterproofing components. This maintains the compact volume while providing effective protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible display performs dual functions as both the user interface and the protective seal, eliminating the need for additional waterproofing components that would reduce available volume.
3Adaptability or versatility
If repeated flexing of the flex cable is allowed, then device functionality is maintained, but damage to the cable increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive filler is applied in advance to secure the flex cable to the flexible display before the device undergoes repeated flexing. This preliminary securing action prevents the cable from experiencing damaging movements during folding operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The adhesive filler acts as an intermediary substance that bonds the flex cable to the flexible display, creating a stable connection that protects the cable from damage during repeated flexing while maintaining folding functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
An example foldable display sub-assembly includes a first assembly and a second assembly. The example foldable display sub-assembly further includes a hinge mechanism attached between the first assembly and the second assembly and a flexible display. The example foldable display sub-assembly further includes a flex cable that runs between the first assembly and the second assembly, and a flex cable holder attached to an internal portion of the first assembly and to a first side of the flex cable. The example foldable display sub-assembly further includes a fixer component that includes one or more hooks matingly engaged within the internal portion of the first assembly. The example foldable display sub-assembly further includes an adhesive filler applied to a space between the flex cable holder, the fixer component, the flex cable, and at least part of the internal portion of the first assembly.