Flexible Display Module Layout for Hinge-Free Signal Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current foldable electronic devices face challenges in efficiently transmitting information between functional components housed in different parts due to the need for space-consuming through-hinge connections, which compromise structural strength and hinder thinning and lightening.
Innovation Solution
A flexible display module with connectors and traces that allow electrical connections between circuits in different housings without requiring through-hinge space, using a flippable or rollable design to facilitate information transmission and improve structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If through-hinge connections are used to transmit information between functional components in different housings, then information transmission is enabled, but structural strength is compromised and device thickness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the connection path from a through-hinge spatial arrangement to a planar arrangement on the flexible display module. Connectors are disposed on the front surface of the display module, allowing electrical connections to be established without penetrating the hinge structure, thus maintaining structural integrity while enabling information transmission between housings
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible display module serves as an intermediary carrier that integrates both display functionality and electrical connection capabilities. By incorporating connectors and traces directly onto the display module, it mediates between the functional components in different housings without requiring traditional through-hinge connection structures
2Reliability
If through-hinge connections are used to connect circuits in different housings, then electrical connection is achieved, but device thickness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection architecture transitions from a vertical through-hinge path to a lateral planar path on the flexible display module surface. This dimensional reconfiguration eliminates the need for thick hinge structures to accommodate connection components, thereby reducing overall device thickness while maintaining reliable electrical connections
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the display module with the electrical connection function by integrating connectors and traces directly onto the display module. This consolidation eliminates separate connection structures that would increase thickness, achieving both display and connectivity functions within a single integrated component
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional housing arrangements with separate connectors are used, then functional components can be distributed in different housings, but space consumption increases and structural integrity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible display module is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as the display interface and as the carrier for electrical connections between housings. By integrating connector functionality into the display module itself, the patent eliminates the need for additional dedicated connection structures, thereby reducing space consumption while maintaining adaptability for distributing functional components across different housings
Data Source
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AI summary
A flexible display module (100) and a foldable electronic device are disclosed. The flexible display module (100) includes a display panel (2), a first trace (3), a first connector (311), and a second connector (312). The first trace (3) is fastened to the display panel (2), and the first connector (311) is electrically connected to the second connector (312) through the first trace (3). The flexible display module (100) includes a first part (M1) and a second part (M2). The first connector (311) is disposed in the first part (M1), and the second connector (312) is disposed in the second part (M2). In addition, on a side that is of the flexible display module (100) and that is opposite to a display surface, both the first connector (311) and the second connector (312) are exposed outside the flexible display module (100). The flexible display module (100) and the foldable electronic device can be used to implement information transmission between functional components in different housings.