Foldable Display Foreign Object Detection via Dual Processor Alert
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable electronic devices with flexible displays face damage risks when foreign objects are inadvertently deposited on them during closure, as existing technologies lack effective safeguards to prevent such damage.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device design that includes a first and second housing with a folding part, a flexible display covering the folding part, and processors to detect external objects using touch sensors, activating a notification system to alert users of potential damage when a foreign object is detected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If the flexible display is folded into a closed configuration, then portability is improved, but the risk of damage from foreign objects increases
Solution Approach 1:
The touch sensor continuously monitors the flexible display surface even when the device is closed, detecting foreign objects before they can cause damage. This preliminary detection allows the system to alert the user before closing the device, preventing damage while maintaining portability through the foldable design
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides real-time feedback through touch sensor detection and user alerts about foreign objects on the flexible display. This feedback loop enables users to take corrective action (remove the foreign object) before closing the device, resolving the contradiction between portability and damage risk
2Measurement precision
If the touch sensor continuously monitors the display, then foreign object detection capability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The processor enters a sleep mode to conserve power and periodically wakes up to check touch sensor data for foreign objects. This periodic monitoring maintains detection capability while significantly reducing power consumption compared to continuous monitoring, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and energy usage
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 system effectively prevents damage to the flexible display by alerting users of foreign objects, ensuring the device's integrity and user safety during closure.
Implementation Method 1
a touch sensor configured to detect a touch input on the first area and the second area
Implementation Method 2
a force touch sensor configured to detect a pressure intensity of a touch input on the flexibly display
Data Source
AI summary
An foldable electronic device and method are disclosed. The device includes: a foldable housing rotatable about a hinge, enabling folding of a flexible display. The device further includes a touch sensor, a first processor and a second processor. The processors implement the method, including: by the first processor, detecting an external object contacting the flexible display and requesting activation of the second processor based on the detection; and by the second processor: activating and outputting a notification warning of potential damage to the flexible display if the device is folded closed with the external object present on the flexible display.