Foldable Display Hinge Support Using Elastic Thermal Buffering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable electronic devices experience deformation and damage due to air gaps and temperature fluctuations in the bending area of the flexible display during folding and unfolding operations, particularly at low temperatures.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of an elastic means with high thermal conductivity in the air gap under the bending area of the flexible display, supported by a pressing mechanism integrated with the hinge module, to prevent deformation and reduce temperature deviations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the flexible display is folded through the hinge module, then the foldable electronic device can be operated in folded and unfolded states, but a space (air gap) is formed under the bending area that causes deformation and damage
Solution Approach 1:
An elastic member is introduced as an intermediary component between the flexible display and the housing. This elastic member fills the air gap formed during folding operations and provides continuous support to the bending area, preventing deformation and damage while allowing the device to be folded and unfolded
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic member is pre-installed in the air gap before folding operations occur. It provides beforehand cushioning support to the bending area, preventing deformation and damage before they can occur during subsequent folding and unfolding cycles
2Temperature
If the foldable electronic device operates in low temperature environments, then cold air is maintained in the air gap, but temperature deviation causes damage to the flexible display
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic member acts as a thermal intermediary that reduces temperature deviation in the air gap. By providing thermal buffering, it prevents extreme temperature fluctuations from directly affecting the flexible display, thereby preventing damage in low temperature environments
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic member changes the thermal parameters of the air gap by providing thermal mass and insulation. This modifies the temperature profile in the bending area, reducing temperature deviation and preventing thermal shock to the flexible display during folding operations
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
Prevents deformation and damage to the flexible display by maintaining consistent temperature and providing structural support during folding and unfolding operations.
Implementation Method 1
Foldable electronic device comprising elastic means
Implementation Method 2
providing an elastic means having high thermal conductivity in a space (e.g., an air gap) formed under a bending area
Data Source
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Figure 1C
AI summary
According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device comprises a first hinge module; a first pressing part, at least a portion of which is connected to the first hinge module; a first support member and a first housing, at least a portion of which is connected to the first hinge module; a second pressing part, at least a portion which is connected to a second hinge module; a second support member and a second housing, at least a portion of which is connected to the second hinge module; a flexible display arranged on the first support member and the second support member; a hinge cover covering the first hinge module and the second hinge module; and an elastic means provided in a space formed between at least a portion of the flexible display and the hinge cover, wherein, in a state in which the first housing and the second housing are unfolded to be substantially parallel to each other, the first pressing part and the second pressing part can be configured to press a first side surface and a second side surface of the elastic means so that the top of the elastic means supports at least a portion of the flexible display. Various other embodiments are possible.