Flexible Display Groove Pattern for Fold-Line Crack Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flexible display panels experience cracks in line parts when curved due to the minimization of the non-display area, which is opposite to the direction of image display.
Innovation Solution
A flexible display device with a flexible display panel featuring a folding area and a groove pattern on its surface, defined by inclined portions and a flat portion, where the width of the groove pattern is determined by the radius of curvature, reducing stress concentration and preventing signal line cracks during folding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the non-display area is minimized in plan view by curving the flexible display panel, then the display area is maximized, but cracks occur in the line parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different structural characteristics to different regions of the flexible display panel. The line parts in the curved region are given special attention with increased line width and optimized routing patterns compared to straight regions, creating local structural reinforcement where stress concentration occurs during curving.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the flexible display panel with pre-curved regions and optimized curvature radii. By carefully controlling the radius of curvature in non-display areas and using multi-segmented curved paths for signal lines, the panel achieves compact folding while distributing mechanical stress away from critical line parts.
2Productivity
If the flexible display panel is curved to minimize non-display area, then space efficiency is improved, but stress concentration causes cracks in signal lines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions signal line routing from two-dimensional planar paths to three-dimensional spatial paths. By utilizing vertical layering with multiple substrate layers and through-substrate vias, signal lines can route around high-stress curved regions in the third dimension, maintaining electrical connectivity while avoiding crack-prone areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a multi-layer nested structure where signal lines are embedded within stacked substrate layers. Critical signal lines are nested within protective encapsulation layers and routed through intermediate layers, providing mechanical protection and stress distribution while maintaining compact panel geometry.
Data Source
AI summary
A flexible display device includes a flexible display panel and a first outer member having a groove pattern. The groove pattern includes a flat surface and inclined portions connected to the flat surface and symmetrical with each other.