Foldable Display Crack Prevention via Segmented Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flexible display devices face durability issues due to repetitive folding, leading to deformation of the folding portion, which affects their longevity and performance.
Innovation Solution
A foldable display device design incorporating a display module, an adhesive member, a first support member, a second support member, and a crack preventing pattern layer with metal or inorganic materials, arranged to absorb stress and prevent cracks during folding, enhancing the device's durability and flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a flexible display device is made bendable and foldable, then portability and user convenience are improved, but durability and resistance to deformation deteriorate due to repetitive folding
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple discrete support members (first support member, second support member, third support member) positioned at different locations. Each support member independently supports specific regions of the display module, allowing the structure to accommodate folding while maintaining overall stability and preventing deformation at hinge regions.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the display device are provided with different levels and types of support. The support members are strategically positioned to provide enhanced support at critical folding regions while maintaining flexibility in other areas. This localized support approach ensures durability at stress points without compromising overall portability.
2Reliability
If support structures are added to prevent deformation, then durability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support members are designed as thin, flexible structures that can bend and flex with the display module during folding operations. These thin-film support structures provide necessary mechanical reinforcement to prevent deformation and cracking while maintaining the overall flexibility and thin profile of the device, avoiding the need for bulky rigid support elements.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of making the entire display module rigid to prevent deformation, the invention uses a flexible substrate with strategically placed support members. This inverted approach allows the majority of the structure to remain flexible for portability while only specific critical regions receive additional support, thereby minimizing overall structural complexity.
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 effectively suppresses deformation and enhances the durability of the folding portion, ensuring the display device remains functional and aesthetically appealing even after repeated use.
Implementation Method 1
an adhesive member, a first support member overlapping the first display area, disposed under the adhesive member, and in contact with the adhesive member
Implementation Method 2
a crack preventing pattern layer overlapping the third display area, disposed under the adhesive member... each of the crack preventing members includes a metal or an inorganic material and is in contact with the adhesive member
Data Source
AI summary
A display device includes a display module foldable with respect to a bending axis, an adhesive member which is disposed under the display module, a plurality of support members adhered to the adhesive member, and a crack preventing pattern layer adhered to a portion of the adhesive member, which overlaps the bending axis. The crack preventing pattern layer includes a plurality of crack preventing members spaced from each other. Each of the crack preventing members includes a metal or an inorganic material and is in contact with the adhesive member.