Foldable Display Sound Generation via Panel Vibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable display devices face challenges in providing optimal sound quality due to limitations in sound generator placement and functionality, especially when transitioning between folded and unfolded states.
Innovation Solution
A foldable display device design that includes multiple sound generators, such as piezoelectric or voice coil-based actuators, strategically positioned between display panels to vibrate and output sound in both folded and unfolded states, utilizing light-shielding and reinforcing members to enhance sound quality and reduce stress during folding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a sound generator is placed in a foldable display device, then sound can be provided, but the location and functionality are limited due to the folded and unfolded states
Solution Approach 1:
The display panel serves dual functions: displaying images and generating sound. The sound generator vibrates the display panel to output sound, eliminating the need for separate speaker components and enabling adaptable sound provision across different device states (folded/unfolded).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the display function and sound generation function into a single integrated system. The sound generator is positioned to directly couple with the display panel, merging acoustic output with the existing display structure to reduce component complexity while maintaining versatility.
2Device complexity
If the display panel is used for both display and sound output, then device complexity is reduced, but the display quality may be affected by vibration
Solution Approach 1:
The sound generator is positioned at specific locations (edges or corners) of the display panel rather than covering the entire surface. This segmented approach localizes vibration to non-display critical areas, reducing impact on overall display quality while maintaining the integrated structure's simplicity.
3Ease of manufacture
If the sound generator is attached to the display panel, then sound output is achieved, but mechanical stress increases during folding
Solution Approach 1:
The sound generator is attached at specific localized positions (edges or corners) rather than across the entire display panel. This localized attachment reduces the distribution of mechanical stress during folding operations, preserving structural integrity while maintaining ease of assembly through simplified attachment points.
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 enables improved sound quality by allowing sound generation in both states through vibrating display panels, providing enhanced audio experience and reducing mechanical stress during folding.
Implementation Method 1
the first sound generator outputs first sound by vibrating at least one of the first and second display panels
Implementation Method 2
The first sound generator may vibrate at least one of the first and second display panels by using a piezoelectric material which contracts or expands in accordance with voltages applied thereto
Data Source
AI summary
A foldable display device includes: a first display panel including a first substrate and a first pixel array layer which is disposed on a first surface of the first substrate; a second display panel including a second substrate and a second pixel array layer which is disposed on a first surface of the second substrate; and a first sound generator disposed between a second surface of the first display panel opposite to the first surface of the first display panel and a second surface of the second display panel opposite to the first surface of the second display panel, where the first sound generator outputs first sound by vibrating at least one of the first and second display panels.