Flexible Display Discharge Structure for Edge Static Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Foldable electronic devices with flexible displays are prone to malfunctions due to static electricity introduced through the edges of the display, which do not effectively flow to the main ground, causing issues like blackening or short phenomena.

Innovation Solution

An electronic device with a discharge structure that includes a protection frame with conductive members on its inner surface, guiding static electricity from the flexible display edges to the main ground, utilizing a polymer layer and adhesive members to ensure effective grounding.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a flexible display is used in a foldable electronic device, then the device can be transformed into various shapes and improved portability, but static electricity can be introduced through the edge of the flexible display causing display panel malfunctions such as blackening or short phenomena

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransformable structureVSAvoiddisplay panel stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

A discharge structure is introduced as an intermediary component between the flexible display edge and the ground. This structure includes a discharge electrode positioned near the flexible display edge and a ground electrode connected to the device ground, creating a controlled discharge path that intercepts static electricity before it can reach and damage the display panel

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent converts the harmful static electricity that would otherwise cause display malfunctions into a beneficial controlled discharge. By positioning the discharge electrode to receive static electricity from the flexible display edge and providing a controlled discharge path to ground, the harmful electrostatic charge is transformed into a safe, controlled electrical flow that protects the display panel

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

2Ease of operation

If the bending portion of the flexible display extends beyond the edge to improve flexibility and connectivity, then the display can be properly connected to the main ground, but static electricity can still be introduced through the exposed edge portions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay connectivityVSAvoidstatic electricity introduction
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The discharge structure acts as an intermediary protective layer between the exposed flexible display edge and the static electricity. The discharge electrode is positioned to intercept electrostatic charges that would otherwise be introduced through the edge, while the ground electrode provides a safe discharge path, protecting the connectivity functions while eliminating the harmful effect

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Prevents display malfunctions by effectively conducting static electricity to the ground, thereby reducing the risk of blackening or shorting in the display panel.

Implementation Method 1

a protection frame disposed to cover at least a portion of an edge of the flexible display and including at least one conductive member attached to an inner surface thereof facing the flexible display

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentEP4239439B1Electronic device comprising discharge structure for connecting static electricity to ground
Publication Date: 2025.08.06 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • EP4239439B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4239439B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4239439B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Various embodiments of the present invention relate to an electronic device comprising a discharge structure for conducting static electricity to ground, wherein a flexible display disposed in a first housing and a second housing may comprise: a glass layer including a front part, a first extension part, and a second extension part, and disposed in a first direction with respect to a display panel; a polymer layer disposed in the first direction with respect to the glass layer, the polymer layer including a first portion disposed to overlap the glass layer, and a second portion disposed outside the first portion and disposed to overlap a protective frame and the first extension part; an adhesive disposed between the glass layer and the first portion of the polymer layer; and an adhesive member attached in a second direction with respect to the second portion of the polymer layer, and having adhesive strength only in the first direction opposite to the second direction. The present invention may further include various other embodiments.