Foldable Display Support Structure Against Opening-Induced Damage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flexible display devices face defects in the foldable area due to foreign substances penetrating through openings in the support member, leading to potential damage and deformation of the display panel.
Innovation Solution
The display device incorporates a support member with openings covered by an elastic member and adhesive members to prevent foreign substance ingress, along with shock absorbing and step difference compensation members to maintain structural integrity during folding and unfolding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If a foldable display device is designed to be compact and portable, then the display area is reduced and flexibility is improved, but the structure becomes more complex and susceptibility to damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by introducing an elastic member between the display panel and support member that proactively absorbs and dissipates impact energy before it can reach and damage the display panel. This elastic member acts as a pre-positioned protective mechanism that cushions against potential drops or impacts, directly addressing the increased damage susceptibility inherent in foldable designs.
2Strength
If adhesive is applied extensively to bond the support member to the display panel, then bonding strength is improved, but residual stress increases and display panel breakage is more likely
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by strategically positioning openings in the support member at specific locations where adhesive is applied. These openings create localized adhesive bonding zones rather than extensive continuous bonding, concentrating the bonding function in specific areas while reducing overall residual stress. This localized approach maintains sufficient bonding strength while minimizing the risk of display panel breakage during manufacturing and use.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the support member is made rigid to provide structural stability, then structural stability is improved, but impact absorption capability decreases and display panel protection is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining the rigid support member with a flexible elastic member in a layered structure. The support member provides structural stability and rigidity, while the elastic member provides impact absorption and flexibility. This composite construction allows the system to simultaneously achieve both structural stability and impact protection, as the two materials complement each other's properties rather than competing.
4Reliability
If adhesive bonding area is increased to ensure proper bonding, then bonding reliability is improved, but residual stress increases and flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies porous materials by incorporating openings in the support member that create a porous or perforated structure. This allows adhesive to be applied in a controlled manner through the openings, ensuring proper bonding at critical locations while maintaining flexibility. The openings reduce the continuous adhesive bonding area, thereby reducing residual stress while preserving bonding reliability at the bonded regions.
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 exposure of openings, thereby minimizing damage and maintaining the structural integrity and functionality of the foldable display area, ensuring reliable operation over repeated folds.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member disposed on a bottom surface of the support member and overlapping the openings in the foldable area
Data Source
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AI summary
An electronic device including a display device including a display panel having a foldable area, a support member disposed on a bottom surface of the display panel and including a plurality of openings formed in the foldable area, and an elastic member disposed on a bottom surface of the support member and overlapping the openings in the foldable area.