Flexible Display Electromagnet Shape Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional flexible display systems are limited to a pre-designed curvature and cannot be dynamically adjusted by consumers, restricting their shape and functionality.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating electromagnets into the display system, arranged in a grid-like configuration, which can be actuated to hold the display in different shapes, allowing for dynamic shaping based on user input and application, enabling the display to curve, wave, or roll up.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a conventional flexible display screen is manufactured with a preset curvature, then the display structure is simple and manufacturing is easier, but the display cannot be dynamically adjusted to different shapes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshape adjustabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from a static preset curvature display to a dynamic shape-adjustable display. Electromagnets are integrated behind the flexible display screen to actively control and change the display's curvature and shape during operation, enabling the display to adapt to different shapes based on user needs rather than being fixed during manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical curvature adjustment mechanisms with an electromagnetic field-based system. Instead of using physical levers, springs, or mechanical actuators to change display shape, the invention uses electromagnets to generate magnetic fields that interact with magnetic particles or layers within the flexible display structure, enabling shape control through electrical signals rather than mechanical means.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If electromagnets are added to enable dynamic shape control, then the display can be adjusted to different shapes, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshape adjustabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing the electromagnet system to perform multiple functions simultaneously. The same electromagnet array controls various aspects of display shape including curvature, folding angles, and surface topology. This multi-functional approach reduces the need for separate mechanisms for each shape adjustment, thereby managing manufacturing complexity while achieving versatile shape control.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements the nested doll principle by integrating the electromagnets within or behind the flexible display structure itself. The electromagnet system is embedded in a compact arrangement where components are nested within each other, with the electromagnet array positioned close to the display surface without adding significant external bulk. This nesting approach minimizes the physical footprint and simplifies the overall manufacturing process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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 the flexible display to be dynamically modified into various shapes and forms, enhancing user interaction and functionality, such as creating 3D topographical maps or Braille patterns, and improving granularity and resolution.

Implementation Method 1

electromagnets attached to the display and oriented such that when the electromagnets are actuated, the display is held in the first shape

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS10488886B2Flexible display systems and methods for controlling and operating the same
Publication Date: 2019.11.26 LENOVO GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES SWITZERLAND INTERNATIONAL GMBH
  • US10488886B2 patent drawing
  • US10488886B2 patent drawing
  • US10488886B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Flexible display systems and methods for controlling and operating the same are disclosed herein. According to an aspect, a display system is provided. The display system comprises a display that is configured to be shaped in one of a first shape and a second shape, the first shape and the second shape being different shapes. The display system further comprises electromagnets attached to the display and oriented such that when the electromagnets are actuated, the display is held in the first shape.