Foldable Display Barrier Protrusions for Easier Bending
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable display devices face challenges in easily folding due to the rigidity of the barrier layer, which hinders smooth folding operations.
Innovation Solution
A display device design incorporating a barrier layer with protrusions under the foldable portion, allowing for increased flexibility and ease of folding by distributing the barrier layer material only on partial areas, enhancing the foldable portion's flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a continuous barrier layer is disposed under the entire display panel, then protection and support are improved, but folding flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier layer is segmented into discrete protrusions rather than forming a continuous layer. Multiple protrusions are distributed across the bottom surface of the display panel, providing localized support and protection while leaving gaps between them that allow the foldable portion to bend more easily.
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier layer transitions from a uniform continuous structure to a non-uniform distributed structure. The protrusions are strategically positioned to provide protection where needed while creating a lighter, more flexible overall structure. The density and distribution of protrusions can be optimized for different regions of the display panel.
2Strength
If a rigid barrier layer is used to maintain structural integrity, then strength is improved, but ease of folding deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid barrier layer is divided into multiple discrete protrusions. Each protrusion maintains the protective function of the barrier layer, but the segmented structure reduces overall rigidity, allowing the foldable portion to bend without compromising the protective function at critical points.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of providing full continuous coverage with a rigid barrier layer, the invention uses partial coverage through distributed protrusions. This partial action approach provides sufficient protection and support while significantly improving folding flexibility by reducing the total rigid material present.
Data Source
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AI summary
A display device includes a display panel including a first non-foldable portion, a second non-foldable portion, and a foldable portion between the first non-foldable portion and the second non-foldable portion, and a barrier layer disposed under the display panel, wherein the barrier layer includes a first barrier layer disposed under the first non-foldable portion, a second barrier layer disposed under the second non-foldable portion, and a plurality of protrusions disposed between the first barrier layer and the second barrier layer and protruding downward from a bottom surface of the foldable portion.