Flexible Electronic Product Shape Change Actuator

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional electronic products have fixed structures due to frames, limiting their ability to change shape and adapt to various forms based on input information.

Innovation Solution

A flexible electronic product with an actuator system that includes a shape memory member or actuator disposed along the edge of a flexible display assembled body, capable of changing shape through external input processing, database search for corresponding shape information, and power supply to the actuator for shape control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If frames are assembled and combined with display members, then structural stability is improved, but shape flexibility deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidshape flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The electronic product is divided into modular components including a display member, frame, and shape change device that can independently function and reconfigure. This segmentation allows the frame to provide structural stability while the shape change device enables shape flexibility through modular reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a shape change device with actuators that enable the electronic product to dynamically transition between different shapes. This dynamic capability resolves the contradiction by allowing the structure to maintain stability in each configuration while being able to adapt to different shapes when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Manufacturing precision

If fixed structures are used in electronic products, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability to different shapes deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural precisionVSAvoidshape adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The electronic product incorporates a shape change device with actuators that enable dynamic reconfiguration between different shapes. This allows the product to maintain high manufacturing precision in each fixed configuration while being adaptable to multiple shapes through controlled transitions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the structural parameters of the electronic product by introducing shape change devices that can alter the configuration of frames and display members. This allows the product to maintain precise manufacturing in each state while adapting to different shapes through parameter changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If actuators are added to enable shape change, then shape adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshape adaptabilityVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The shape change device is designed as a multi-functional component that integrates actuators, control units, and structural elements into a single system. This universal design enables shape adaptation while minimizing the addition of separate complex components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a nested structure where the shape change device is integrated within the existing frame and display member assembly. The actuators and control mechanisms are positioned within the existing structural framework, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining shape adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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 the flexible electronic product to dynamically change shape in response to input information, allowing it to adapt to different forms such as linear, polygonal, circular, or arced configurations, enhancing usability and functionality.

Implementation Method 1

an actuator disposed along at least a portion of the flexible electronic assembled body to change a shape of the flexible electronic assembled body

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectShape memory effect: Shape Memory Alloy

Data Source

PatentUS8380327B2Flexible electronic product having a shape change characteristic and method thereof
Publication Date: 2013.02.19 PANTECH CORP
  • US8380327B2 patent drawing
  • US8380327B2 patent drawing
  • US8380327B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A flexible electronic product includes a flexible electronic assembled body and an actuator including a shape memory member. The actuator of the flexible electronic product deforms in response to an input. The flexible electronic assembled body includes a flexible display device, such as an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a plastic liquid crystal display (LCD), a plastic plasma display panel (PDP), an electronic ink panel, an organic thin film transistor (OTFT).