Foldable Device Display Retraction Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable electronic devices face challenges in accommodating flexible displays that extend over multiple folding parts, as existing structures often cannot accommodate the required bending radius without increasing device thickness, and there is a need for a mechanism to retract the display during folding for protection and space optimization.
Innovation Solution
A foldable device with a pivoting connection between the housing structure and the display assembly, where the display assembly comprises frame parts connected to the housing parts, allowing the flexible display to bend and retract inside the device as it folds, using a mechanism that includes a hinge and locking mechanisms to manage the display's position in various configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the flexible display part extends over multiple housing parts to provide a large display area, then the display area is increased, but the device thickness increases when folded
Solution Approach 1:
The display assembly is nested within the housing structure during folded configuration. The display assembly can be retracted inside the space defined by the housing parts when the device is folded, allowing the flexible display to bend without increasing the overall device thickness in closed state
Solution Approach 2:
The display assembly is made movable relative to the housing parts through a pivoting connection. This dynamic arrangement allows the display assembly to change position between extended (open) and retracted (closed) states, accommodating the flexible display bending radius without permanently increasing device thickness
2Ease of operation
If the flexible display part is allowed to bend freely during folding, then the folding motion is smooth, but the display may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The housing structure provides protective enclosure for the flexible display during folding and storage. When folded, the housing parts enclose and protect the bent flexible display, preventing external damage while allowing smooth bending motion during the folding operation
Solution Approach 2:
The pivoting connection mechanism acts as an intermediary between the housing parts and the display assembly. This mechanism controls and guides the bending motion of the flexible display, ensuring smooth folding while maintaining proper alignment and reducing stress concentrations that could cause damage
3Device complexity
If the display assembly is fixed in position, then the structure is simple, but the display cannot be retracted during folding
Solution Approach 1:
The display assembly is transformed from a fixed to a movable configuration through the pivoting connection. This allows the display assembly to dynamically adjust its position relative to the housing parts, enabling retraction during folding while maintaining structural integrity through the defined pivot points and connection mechanisms
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
This solution enables a compact, protected form factor for devices with large displays by accommodating the bending radius of the flexible display without significantly increasing device thickness, enhancing durability during transport and storage, and providing improved user experience through efficient folding and unfolding mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible display part; the flexible display part is configured to bend in response to a closing movement of the housing parts
Implementation Method 2
the display assembly is configured to be retracted inside a space defined by the housing parts in response to a closing movement of the housing parts
Implementation Method 3
the apparatus further comprises a locking mechanism configured to lock the display assembly into a certain position in dependence of the configuration of the housing parts
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus including: housing parts foldably connected to each other, the housing parts being configured to be movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration; a display assembly pivotably connected to the housing parts, wherein the display assembly comprises a flexible display part; the flexible display part is configured to bend in response to a closing movement of the housing parts; and the display assembly is configured to be retracted inside a space defined by the housing parts in response to a closing movement of the housing parts.