Foldable Device Shielding Sheet for Hinge Module

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Solution Overview

Problem

Foldable electronic devices, such as notebook computers, face the challenge of exposing their internal hinge structure during opening and closing operations, compromising their aesthetic integrity and beauty.

Innovation Solution

A foldable electronic device design that incorporates a shielding sheet covering the hinge module, comprising an inner film of low ductility and an outer film of high ductility, with guide grooves and sections that adjust to cover the hinge module seamlessly during state changes, ensuring a beautiful and intact appearance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of moving object

If a dual-shaft hinge structure is used to enable larger-angle opening and closing, then the opening angle is improved, but the internal structure is exposed during operation, worsening the appearance integrity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveopening angleVSAvoidappearance integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

A shielding sheet composed of flexible inner film and outer film is used to cover the hinge module. The films are arranged in layers with the inner film fixed to the hinge module, allowing the shielding sheet to conform to the moving hinge structure while maintaining appearance integrity during opening and closing operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The shielding sheet is designed with movable sections that can dynamically adjust their position and shape during the opening and closing process. The flexible film structure allows the shielding sheet to adapt to the changing geometry of the hinge module, ensuring continuous coverage while accommodating the required motion range.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Shape

If a shielding sheet is added to cover the hinge module, then the appearance integrity is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveappearance integrityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of using rigid covering structures or complex mechanical shields, the patent employs flexible film structures that can be easily formed and attached. The inner film and outer film are arranged in layers, creating an effective shielding solution with minimal structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The shielding sheet is constructed as a composite structure with an inner film and an outer film. This composite design allows each layer to serve specific functions (the inner film for structural integration, the outer film for aesthetic appearance) while together providing effective coverage of the hinge module.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

3Shape

If the inner film has low ductility and the outer film has high ductility, then the appearance beauty is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveappearance beautyVSAvoidfilm arrangement precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

Different regions of the shielding sheet have different material properties tailored to their specific functions. The inner film uses low-ductility material for structural stability and precise positioning, while the outer film uses high-ductility material for aesthetic flexibility and visual appeal. This local differentiation of material properties optimizes both appearance and manufacturability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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

The shielding sheet effectively conceals the hinge module, maintaining the device's appearance and smooth operation as it transitions from a closed to an expanded state, enhancing both the integrity and beauty of the foldable electronic device.

Implementation Method 1

the inner film is a film of low ductility, the outer film is a film of high ductility, and the ductility of the inner film is smaller than the ductility of the outer film

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDuctility difference: Plasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10359805B2Foldable electronic device
Publication Date: 2019.07.23 COMPAL ELECTRONICS INC
  • US10359805B2 patent drawing
  • US10359805B2 patent drawing
  • US10359805B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A foldable electronic device including a first body, a second body, a hinge module and a shielding sheet is provided. The hinge module is pivotally connected to the first body and the second body. The shielding sheet covers the hinge module. The shielding sheet includes an inner film and an outer film overlapping each other, and the inner film is fixed to the hinge module.