Foldable Display Device with Variable Upper Case for Seamless Hinge
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable display devices have issues with large non-display areas, visible hinges, and insufficient strength in connections, leading to a less-than-ideal appearance and susceptibility to wrinkling when folded.
Innovation Solution
A foldable display device design featuring a case unit with an elongated connecting plate, tubular support members, and a flexible display panel, where the support members' dimensions adjust to accommodate the display panel without visible joints, ensuring a large display area and preventing wrinkling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple separate displays are provided in two cases, then each case can have its own display, but a boundary is formed between the displays which cannot be disregarded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate displays into a single flexible display that spans across both cases. The flexible display is continuously formed without a boundary, eliminating the visual separation that would exist between two distinct display units. This is achieved by making the display flexible and continuous across the hinge region.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the flexible display at the hinge region, allowing it to be folded while maintaining continuity. The display is divided into portions on either side of the hinge, but remains a single continuous flexible structure that can bend without creating a visible boundary when opened.
2Shape
If a single flexible display is applied to a foldable structure to eliminate boundary, then the display area becomes continuous, but the display receives a large load at the folded portion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing reinforcement specifically at the hinge region where the flexible display is folded. The reinforcing member is placed only at this critical location to bear the bending load, while the rest of the display maintains its flexibility and continuity. This localized reinforcement protects the display from damage without affecting its overall continuous appearance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a plastic hollow bellows structure is used to connect cases, then the structure allows folding, but the connection strength is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite structure combining a flexible display with a reinforcing member made of a material stronger than the flexible display material. This composite construction allows the assembly to maintain flexibility for folding while the reinforcing member provides the necessary structural strength to bear loads during folding and support the display.
4Volume of moving object
If the display is folded at an acute angle, then the device can be compacted, but the display may wrinkle or be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides beforehand cushioning by placing a reinforcing member at the hinge region before folding occurs. This reinforcing member acts as a protective element that prevents the flexible display from wrinkling or being damaged during acute angle folding. The reinforcement is positioned in advance to bear the stress of folding, ensuring the display maintains its integrity even when compacted.
Data Source
AI summary
A display device includes a foldable case unit and a flexible display panel. The case unit includes an elongated connecting plate, and a lower case and an upper case coupled to the connecting plate via hinge parts, respectively. The upper case has a variable dimension in a y direction. In the opened case unit, the lower case, the connecting plate, and the upper case are aligned flush with one another in the y direction. In the folded case unit, the dimension of the upper case in the y direction is larger than the dimension in the opened case unit, and the display panel is accommodated in a space surrounded with the lower case, the connecting plate, and the upper case.