Flexible Display Panel Deployment for Tool-Free Size Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing computing devices with flexible display panels require the use of tools to resize the effective display panel, which can compromise the integrity of the device.

Innovation Solution

A computing device design that allows for resizing the effective display panel size without tools by using a rotatable lid portion and platform mechanism, with a flexible display panel that deploys and retracts smoothly, and a locking mechanism to prevent damage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If tools are used to resize the effective display panel, then the display panel size can be adjusted, but the integrity of the device is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay panel size adjustmentVSAvoiddevice integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic display system where the flexible display panel can be resized between different effective display areas (first and second effective display areas) through mechanical movement of the platform. The locking mechanism dynamically transitions between locked and unlocked states to enable or prevent resizing operations, allowing the display to adapt to different usage scenarios while maintaining structural integrity when locked.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The locking mechanism is designed to automatically secure the flexible display panel in its different configurations without requiring external tools. The mechanism self-activates to prevent further movement once the display reaches its intended size, providing self-protection against accidental damage and eliminating the need for tool-based resizing that could compromise device integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If the flexible display panel is made more flexible to enable bending and rolling, then the adaptability of the device is improved, but the structural strength may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility for bending and rollingVSAvoidstructural integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a flexible substrate as the foundation of the display panel, allowing the display to be bent, rolled, or curved without damaging the computing device. This flexible film structure enables the display to conform to different shapes and configurations while maintaining its functional integrity, directly supporting the device's adaptability requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The locking mechanism is designed as a single-use or limited-use component that prevents further movement after the display reaches its intended configuration. This sacrificial element protects the more valuable flexible display and structural components by absorbing the stress of the resizing operation and preventing over-movement that could cause damage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Reliability

If the locking mechanism is made more secure to prevent damage, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation for resizing is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedamage preventionVSAvoidresizing operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism replaces complex tool-based securing systems with a simpler mechanical design that integrates directly into the display structure. This substitution allows the display to be locked securely without requiring external tools, maintaining both reliability and ease of operation by using built-in mechanical features that engage automatically during the resizing process.

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

Data Source

PatentUS12386394B2Flexible display panels
Publication Date: 2025.08.12 HEWLETT PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LP
  • US12386394B2 patent drawing
  • US12386394B2 patent drawing
  • US12386394B2 patent drawing

AI summary

According to an example, a computing device comprises a base portion and a lid portion rotatably coupled to the base portion. The lid portion comprises a platform, an aperture to receive the platform, and a flexible display panel disposed on the platform. Upon a deployment of the platform, an area of the flexible display panel on an upper side of lid portion is to increase such that the area overlaps with the base portion.