Flexible Hinge Display Frame for FOLED Edge Protection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Flexible organic light-emitting diode (FOLED) displays in mobile devices are prone to damage at the edges due to drops and user handling, such as peeling, which compromises their long-term functionality.

Innovation Solution

A display frame with a flexible hinge section that couples two display frame sections, allowing the frame to bend and protect the edges of the FOLED display, comprising a first wall integral to the frame and hinge section, enabling the frame to absorb shocks and prevent edge damage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If FOLED displays are made flexible to enable various shapes and positions, then adaptability is improved, but the edges become more susceptible to damage from drops and peeling

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveflexibilityVSAvoidedge durability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies a flexible protective frame that mirrors the FOLED display's flexibility while providing structural protection. The frame includes a flexible protective layer that covers the edges of the FOLED display, allowing the assembly to bend without compromising the FOLED's integrity or the protective function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The protective frame is positioned beforehand to cover and protect the vulnerable edges of the FOLED display before damage can occur. The frame absorbs and distributes impact forces from drops, preventing direct transmission to the FOLED edges, and physically blocks peeling actions by creating a protective barrier.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

2Strength

If the display frame is made rigid to protect the FOLED edges, then strength is improved, but the frame cannot accommodate bending and folding

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprotective strengthVSAvoidflexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The protective frame is constructed from flexible materials and designed with flexible joints that allow bending while maintaining protective strength. The frame includes a flexible protective layer that can bend with the FOLED display while continuing to protect the edges from impact and peeling forces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The frame transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic flexible structure that can adapt its shape. The flexible joints and protective layer allow the frame to bend and fold with the display while maintaining continuous protection, enabling the system to accommodate various positions and shapes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11303742B2Display frame for a mobile device

Publication Date: 2022.04.12 MOTOROLA MOBILITY LLC

AI summary

A display frame for a mobile device includes a first display frame section and a second display frame section. A flexible hinge section couples the first display frame section and the second display frame section. The flexible hinge section enables the first and second display frame sections to bend relative to each other. A first wall is contiguous with the first display frame section, the flexible hinge section, and the second display frame section. The first wall is integral to the first display frame section, the flexible hinge section, and the second display frame section.