Flexible Display Non-Folding Stiffness via Bottom Fasteners
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Flexible displays face challenges in maintaining reliability during frequent folding operations and achieving efficient device performance due to the dead area created by circular loops on the mid-frame, which reduces the display area efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A flexible display design that includes a display panel, a plate divided into folding and non-folding portions, with metal bolts on the non-folding portion to increase stiffness and a supporter for enhanced reliability, minimizing the bezel area by positioning the fasteners on the bottom surface rather than the side, thus eliminating the dead area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If circular loops are provided on the side portion of the mid-frame to fasten the display panel, then the display panel can be securely fixed to the case structure, but the loops protrude outwards forming a dead area that reduces the display area efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the fastening structure from a protruding side-mounted circular loop configuration to a planar bottom-surface configuration. The fasteners are positioned on the bottom surface of the mid-frame within the projection area of the display panel, eliminating the outward protrusion that created dead areas. This dimensional repositioning allows the fastening function to be achieved without sacrificing display area efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the mid-frame is made thin for flexibility, then the display can be folded, but the non-folding portion lacks sufficient stiffness to maintain reliability during frequent folding operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing support members specifically at the non-folding portion of the mid-frame, while keeping the folding portion thin and flexible. The support members are positioned only in the non-folding area to provide localized stiffness enhancement without affecting the overall flexibility needed for folding operations. This selective reinforcement maintains the thin profile where flexibility is needed while providing strength where structural stability is required.
3Reliability
If support members are added to the non-folding portion to increase stiffness, then reliability during folding operations is maintained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs thin film support members that are integrated into the non-folding portion of the mid-frame. These support members are designed as thin, planar structures that provide the necessary stiffness reinforcement without adding significant bulk or complexity to the overall device architecture. The thin film nature of the support members allows them to be seamlessly integrated into the existing mid-frame structure, maintaining a sleek profile while providing the required structural support for reliable folding operations.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a flexible display that is slim for flexibility, is controlled in stiffness, and has improved reliability owing to a structure of a non-folding portion thereof.