Foldable Display Hinge Structure for Two-Direction Folding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current foldable display devices can only be folded or unfolded in one direction, limiting their flexibility in use.
Innovation Solution
A hinge mechanism with at least two groups of first and second flip mechanisms, each allowing folding or unfolding in different directions, and a transition mechanism for connecting these mechanisms, enabling the display device to be folded or unfolded in two directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single flip mechanism is used, then the structure is simple, but the device can only be folded or unfolded in one direction, resulting in poor flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge is divided into multiple independent flip mechanisms (first flip mechanism and second flip mechanism), each capable of independent rotation. The first flip mechanism includes a first support base and two first flip assemblies, while the second flip mechanism includes a second support base and two second flip assemblies. This segmentation allows each module to function independently, enabling multi-directional folding while maintaining manageable structural complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single-direction folding to multi-directional folding by adding rotational freedom in another dimension. The first flip mechanisms rotate around a first direction while the second flip mechanisms rotate around a second direction that intersects with the first direction. This dimensional addition transforms the hinge from a linear folding structure to a multi-axial folding system, significantly improving adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple flip mechanisms are added to enable multi-directional folding, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each flip mechanism is designed as a universal module that can perform multiple functions. The first flip assemblies and second flip assemblies are structurally similar and can be interchanged, with each assembly capable of rotating independently. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized components for each folding direction, managing complexity through standardized universal modules that serve multiple purposes in the overall hinge system.
Solution Approach 2:
The flip assemblies are nested within the support bases, with the first flip assemblies rotatably connected to the first support base and the second flip assemblies rotatably connected to the second support base. This nesting arrangement consolidates multiple components into compact integrated units, reducing the overall spatial footprint and managing structural complexity by organizing components hierarchically within each other.
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
Enhances the flexibility of the foldable display device by allowing it to be folded or unfolded in multiple directions, improving usability and adaptability to different use scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
two first flip assemblies which are rotatably connected to the first support base and are oppositely arranged; and two second flip assemblies which are rotatably connected to the second support base and are oppositely arranged
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge includes at least two groups of first flip mechanisms, at least two groups of second flip mechanisms, and a transition mechanism. One group of the at least two groups of first flip mechanisms includes a first support base extending in a first direction and two first flip assemblies which are rotatably connected to the first support base and are oppositely arranged. One group of the at least two groups of second flip mechanisms includes a second support base extending in a second direction and two second flip assemblies which are rotatably connected to the second support base set and are oppositely arranged. Two groups of the at least two groups of first flip mechanisms are arranged on both sides of the transition mechanism in the first direction and are both rotatably connected to the transition mechanism.