Foldable Display Hinge Mesh Layer Against Particle Intrusion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Foldable display devices face reliability issues due to foreign substances interfering with their functionality at the bendable portions, which existing technologies have not adequately addressed.

Innovation Solution

A foldable display device design incorporating a protective layer made of stretchable material with a mesh structure, such as nylon or polyurethane, attached to the support members to block foreign substances from entering the bendable area, combined with a support system including stainless steel, copper, or graphite support plates and adhesive members for enhanced protection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a protective layer with mesh structure is added to block foreign substances, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovereliabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A protective layer made of stretchable material with mesh structure is introduced as an intermediary component between the external environment and the bendable portion of the display module. This protective layer blocks foreign substances (dust, particles, etc.) from entering the internal structure while allowing the device to maintain its folding functionality. The protective layer acts as a mediator that prevents contamination without interfering with the mechanical movement of the hinge.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The protective layer is constructed from a stretchable material forming a thin film with a mesh structure. This thin film structure provides protection against foreign substances while maintaining flexibility to accommodate the bending motion of the foldable display device. The mesh structure allows the film to stretch and deform with the hinge movement while still blocking particulate matter.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

2Reliability

If a protective layer made of stretchable material is used to cover the bendable portion, then foreign substance intrusion is prevented, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection against foreign substancesVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The protective layer utilizes a stretchable material formed into a thin film with mesh structure that can be applied to the support members. This thin film approach simplifies manufacturing compared to rigid protective structures, as it can be stretched and conformally attached to the bending surfaces of the hinge mechanism, accommodating the dynamic geometry of the foldable device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The protective layer is designed with stretchable material properties that allow it to dynamically adapt to the changing geometry of the bendable portion during folding and unfolding operations. This dynamic characteristic enables the protective layer to maintain its protective function throughout the range of motion without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms or multiple components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 significantly improves the reliability of foldable display devices by effectively preventing foreign substances from reaching the bendable portions, ensuring consistent functionality and durability.

Implementation Method 1

the protective layer blocks foreign substances from being introduced to the bendable portion of the display module

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhysical filtration: Filter (physical)

Implementation Method 2

a protective layer attached to the first portion and the second portion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesion: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentUS11442202B2Foldable display device
Publication Date: 2022.09.13 SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO LTD
  • US11442202B2 patent drawing
  • US11442202B2 patent drawing
  • US11442202B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A foldable display device includes: a flexible display module including a first substantially non-bendable portion, a second substantially non-bendable portion, and a bendable portion between the first non-bendable portion and the second non-bendable portion; a support member disposed on the flexible display module, the support member including a hinge portion, a first portion connected to the hinge portion and supporting the first non-bendable portion, and a second portion connected to the hinge portion and supporting the second non-bendable portion to permit the first and second portions to rotate about the hinge portion; and a protective layer attached to the first portion and the second portion to cover the bendable portion disposed between the first portion and the second portion, the protective layer including a stretchable material having a mesh structure.