Foldable Display Hinge Structure With Single-Stage Rotation Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing folding apparatuses for flexible displays in foldable electronic devices suffer from insufficient control precision due to complex multi-stage hinge structures, leading to inaccuracies in folding and unfolding operations.
Innovation Solution
A folding apparatus with a single-stage rotatable connection mechanism among the first support, second support, and middle housing, featuring a simple part fitting relationship, reduced parts, and enhanced control precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a multi-stage hinge structure is used as the main moving mechanism, then the folding apparatus can achieve the folding function, but the control precision is insufficient due to large quantity of parts, complex fitting relationship, and large accumulated transmission error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the folding apparatus into distinct functional modules: a first support module, a second support module, and a middle housing module. Each module can be independently manufactured and assembled, reducing the complexity of the overall structure while maintaining the folding function. The first support is rotatably connected to the middle housing, and the second support is rotatably connected to the middle housing, creating a segmented but coordinated system that reduces accumulated transmission errors compared to multi-stage hinge structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the support functions into a unified structure where the first support surface and second support surface work together to provide coordinated support for the flexible display. The middle housing integrates the rotational connection mechanisms for both supports, consolidating multiple functions into a single modular unit. This merging reduces the total number of separate components and simplifies the fitting relationships while maintaining precise control over the folding motion.
2Manufacturing precision
If a multi-stage hinge structure is used, then the folding function is achieved, but the rotation precision is reduced due to accumulated transmission error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the rotational mechanism into independent rotational joints: the first support rotates relative to the middle housing, and the second support rotates relative to the middle housing. Each rotational joint can be precisely manufactured and calibrated independently, reducing the accumulated transmission errors that occur in multi-stage hinge structures where errors compound through multiple connection points. This segmentation allows for better control over rotation precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the essential folding function from the complex multi-stage hinge structure, retaining only the necessary rotational connections between the supports and middle housing. By removing unnecessary intermediate stages and components, the design achieves the required folding functionality with fewer parts, thereby reducing accumulated transmission errors and improving rotation precision.
3Strength
If the first support and second support are close to each other in open state, then flat strong support is provided for flexible display, but the space requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the first support and second support are positioned within the spatial envelope of the middle housing. When the folding apparatus is in the open state, the supports are close to each other to provide flat support, but they are nested within the overall structure to minimize the external footprint. This nesting allows the supports to work together effectively while keeping the device compact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the third dimension (depth) to accommodate the support structures. The first support and second support are arranged to work together in a way that provides strong flat support on the two-dimensional display surface, while their structural depth is optimized to fit within the overall device thickness. This dimensional optimization allows strong support without proportionally increasing the device's external dimensions.
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 solution improves the rotation precision of the folding apparatus, enhances user experience by providing a flat and strong support for the flexible display, and reduces the risk of damage during folding and unfolding.
Implementation Method 1
One end of the first support is rotatably connected to the middle housing, and the other end is fixedly connected to the first housing. One end of the second support is rotatably connected to the middle housing, and the other end is fixedly connected to the second housing.
Data Source
AI summary
A rotation mechanism, includes a middle housing (1), a first support (2) and a second support (3), a first end of the first support is rotatably connected to the middle housing, and a second end of the first support is fixedly connected to a first housing; a first end of the second support is rotatably connected to the middle housing, and a second end of the second support is fixedly connected to a second housing.