Foldable Display Module With Segmented Adhesive Layers for Folding Stability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing foldable electronic devices face challenges with stability and durability, particularly due to interference between adhesive layers, which can occur during folding and external forces.

Innovation Solution

The electronic device incorporates a window with a protective layer and an impact absorbing layer, separated by distinct adhesive layers. The first adhesive layer is between the window and the protective layer, and the second adhesive layer is between the window and the impact absorbing layer, with exposed edges to prevent interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If adhesive layers are used to bond the protective layer and impact absorbing layer to the window, then bonding strength is improved, but interference between adhesive layers occurs during folding and external forces

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebonding strengthVSAvoidstability during folding

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The adhesive structure is segmented into distinct first and second adhesive layers, each positioned between the window and different components (protective layer and impact absorbing layer respectively). This segmentation prevents interference between adhesive layers during folding operations while maintaining bonding strength at each interface.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The window serves as an intermediary component that is bonded to both the protective layer and impact absorbing layer through separate adhesive layers. This intermediary positioning allows the window to act as a stable reference point, preventing adhesive layer interference while maintaining strong bonding throughout the structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Duration of action of stationary object

If multiple layers are added to enhance protection and stability, then durability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovedurabilityVSAvoidstructural complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Duration of action of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The protective layer, impact absorbing layer, window, and adhesive layers are merged into a single integrated assembly that functions as a unified protective structure. This merging approach enhances durability through multiple protective functions while avoiding the complexity of separate, independently managed components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The window serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, acts as a bonding interface for both adhesive layers, and serves as a substrate for the protective and impact absorbing layers. This multi-functionality reduces overall structural complexity while maintaining enhanced durability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12343978B2Display module and electronic device including the same

Publication Date: 2025.07.01 SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO LTD

AI summary

An electronic device includes an upper member, a first adhesive layer, and a second adhesive layer. The upper member includes a window having a rear surface opposite to a front surface, a protective layer on the front surface of the window, and an impact absorbing layer on the rear surface of the window. The display panel is below the upper member, and the first adhesive layer is between the window and the protective layer. The second adhesive layer is between the window and the impact absorbing layer. An edge of the front surface of the window is exposed by the first adhesive layer, and an edge of the second adhesive layer is exposed by the window.