Flexible Display Panel Folding for Reduced Visible Borders

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Solution Overview

Problem

The increasing demand for high image quality and various applications in display apparatuses has led to an increase in the non-display region, reducing the percentage of the display region visible to the user.

Innovation Solution

A flexible display panel design with a first region oriented on a first plane and a second region oriented on a second plane, where the non-display region is folded opposite to the display region, reducing the visible border width and area ratio of non-display to display regions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the number of circuits and wirings in the non-display region is increased to meet high image quality and various applications, then the functionality and performance of the display apparatus is improved, but the area of the non-display region increases, reducing the percentage of the display region visible to the user

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidvisible display area
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning from a planar layout to a three-dimensional folded structure. The flexible display panel folds the non-display region containing circuits and wirings into a direction opposite to the display region, moving components from the same plane to different spatial dimensions. This allows the non-display region to be positioned behind or beside the display region in 3D space, reducing its visible footprint while maintaining all necessary functional components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes curvature by introducing a folded configuration where the non-display region is bent at an angle relative to the display region. The border region between the display and non-display regions is designed with a curved surface having a specific curvature radius, creating a three-dimensional structure that reduces the visible width of the non-display region while preserving circuit functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

2Area of stationary object

If the non-display region is folded into a direction opposite to the display region, then the visible border width and area ratio of non-display to display regions are reduced, but the structural complexity of the display panel increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisible non-display region areaVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs flexible shells and thin films by using a flexible substrate that can be folded without breaking. The flexible encapsulation member and protective films are designed to accommodate the folded structure, maintaining protection and structural integrity. This flexibility allows the non-display region to be folded into a compact configuration while managing the structural complexity through material properties rather than complex mechanical mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the display panel into distinct regions: a display region and a non-display region containing circuits and wirings. These regions are separated by a border region with a curved surface, creating clear spatial and functional boundaries. The flexible substrate is also segmented into first and second regions corresponding to these functional zones, allowing independent folding and positioning while reducing visible non-display area.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Area of stationary object

If a border region with a curved surface is introduced between the display region and non-display region, then the visible width of the non-display region is reduced, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisible border widthVSAvoidcurvature radius precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing the curvature radius of the border region to achieve the desired balance between visible width reduction and manufacturability. The curvature radius is designed within a specific range (0.01 mm to 10 mm, preferably 0.01 mm to 1 mm) that provides sufficient visual benefit while remaining compatible with existing manufacturing capabilities. This parameter optimization allows the curved border region to effectively reduce visible non-display area without imposing excessive precision requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20250278118A1Flexible display panel and display apparatus including the flexible display panel
Publication Date: 2025.09.04 SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO LTD
  • US20250278118A1 patent drawing
  • US20250278118A1 patent drawing
  • US20250278118A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A flexible display panel including: a flexible panel including a first region including a display region and oriented on a first plane and a second region including a non-display region and oriented on a second plane different from the first plane; and a flexible encapsulation member disposed on the flexible panel so as to encapsulate at least the display region.