Flexible Display Hinge Structure for Flat Foldable Screens
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices with foldable displays face challenges in maintaining a flat surface when transitioning between unfolded and folded positions due to the deformation of the foldable area, requiring a larger size for the device and complicating the display's ability to rest in a fixed position.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a hinge structure within the electronic device allows for variations in the length of the flexible display, enabling it to be freely switched between a small screen mode and a large screen mode by rotating the housings relative to each other, with a dual-axis hinge module and slide modules that support the display assembly to maintain a flat surface during these transitions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a foldable display structure is implemented to enable the display to rest in a fixed position, then the display can be positioned stably, but the foldable area deforms when the device transitions between flat and folded positions
Solution Approach 1:
The display assembly is divided into multiple segments including a first display portion, a second display portion, and a foldable display portion. The foldable display is further segmented into a first flexible display and a second flexible display connected by a hinge. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall structural integrity and surface flatness during transitions.
2Area of stationary object
If the display area is increased to provide larger screen, then the display size is enlarged, but the device becomes less compact
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs a dynamic foldable structure that transitions between unfolded and folded states. The hinge mechanism enables the display to dynamically change its spatial configuration, providing a large display area when unfolded and a compact form factor when folded, thus resolving the contradiction between display size and device portability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a hinge structure is added to support the flexible display variations in length, then the display can transition between screen modes, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge structure integrates multiple functions into a single component: it supports the foldable display, enables transitions between screen modes, and maintains structural alignment. The housing structure is designed to incorporate the hinge mechanism while providing support and protection, merging structural support and articulation functions to reduce overall complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to electronic device comprising a flexible display module; a housing accommodating the flexible display module, the housing including a first housing and a second housing; a hinge structure coupled between the first housing and the second housing and configured to facilitate folding of the electronic device; a plurality of bars disposed between the flexible display module and the housing and configured such that first surfaces of respective bars of the plurality of bars facing the flexible display module form a flat surface when the electronic device is in a flattened state and form at least a partially curved surface when the electronic device is in a folded state; and an elastic member disposed between the plurality of bars and at least part of an area of the flexible display module that curves when the flexible display module is folded.