Flexible Display Sliding Mechanism for Deformation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard flexible display panels deform when retracted due to compressive forces, requiring power sources like step motors or hydraulic pumps to prevent deformation, which complicates the configuration and shortens battery life.
Innovation Solution
A semi-automatic sliding mechanism using a flexible display panel with a guide member and sliding member, comprising a first and second shaft, gear box, and compressible springs, allows the panel to be extended and retracted without power, minimizing stress and deformation by transferring forces through a gear engagement system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a power apparatus (step motor or hydraulic pump) is used to prevent deformation during retraction, then the flexible display panel can be retracted without deformation, but the device complexity increases and battery life shortens
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible display panel uses its own elastic deformation and the guide member's geometric constraints to achieve automatic retraction without external power. The panel's flexibility and the guide member's structure work together to convert the user's pulling motion into automatic folding, eliminating the need for motors or pumps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the power-based mechanical system (motors or hydraulic pumps) with a purely mechanical passive system using elastic deformation and geometric guidance. The guide member's curved surface and the panel's elasticity substitute for active mechanical actuation.
2Reliability
If a power apparatus is used to prevent deformation during retraction, then the flexible display panel can be retracted without deformation, but the battery life shortens
Solution Approach 1:
The system eliminates power consumption by using the panel's own elastic properties and the guide member's geometric design to achieve automatic retraction. The user's initial pulling action triggers a self-sustaining mechanical process that requires no additional energy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes active powered mechanical systems with a passive elastic-mechanical system. The guide member's curved geometry and the panel's elasticity create a self-actuating mechanism that consumes zero battery power.
3Device complexity
If the flexible display panel is retracted without power, then the device complexity is reduced, but the panel may deform under compressive forces
Solution Approach 1:
The guide member acts as an intermediary between the user's pulling action and the panel's retraction. Its curved surface guides the panel through a controlled folding path, converting linear pulling motion into rotational folding motion while preventing harmful compressive stresses.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide member incorporates a curved surface that matches the panel's folding geometry. This curvature allows the panel to rotate smoothly around a hinge axis while the guide member's shape controls the folding path, preventing deformation by distributing forces along a predetermined arc.
4Use of energy by moving object
If the flexible display panel is extended and retracted manually, then no power is required, but the operation may be cumbersome without assistance
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static friction to dynamic rolling motion through the guide member's curved surface. As the panel pulls, the guide member rotates on its axis, converting sliding friction into rolling contact which significantly reduces resistance and makes manual operation smoother.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide member's rotation creates a vibrating or oscillating motion during the folding process, which helps maintain continuous contact between the panel and guide member surfaces, reducing sticking points and improving operational smoothness.
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 smooth extension and retraction of the flexible display panel without power, reducing deformation and extending its lifespan, while maintaining a compact configuration similar to keypad-type sliding phones.
Implementation Method 1
a first shaft (410) of which one end is fixed to the first flat portion (221) through the guide member (300) and which is compressible and extendable
Data Source
AI summary
A flexible display is disclosed. In one aspect, the flexible display includes a flexible display panel including: a first flat portion, a bending portion connected to the first flat portion, and a second flat portion connected to the bending portion and opposing the first flat portion. The flexible display also includes a guide member fixed to the flexible display panel and arranged between the first and second flat portions and a housing supporting the flexible display panel and the guide member and arranged between the first and second flat portions. The flexible display further comprises a sliding member connected to the housing and the guide member and configured to move the second flat portion by substantially the same distance as and in an opposite direction to the first flat portion when the first flat portion is moved.