Foldable Support Plate and Gear Linkage for Compact Hinges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable apparatuses for electronic devices with flexible displays require a complex structure and numerous components, making them bulky and unfavorable for lightweight designs.
Innovation Solution
A foldable apparatus with a simplified structure, comprising a first support plate, a middle support plate, a second support plate, a main shaft, hinge connecting rods, and gear connecting rods, which allows for relative folding and unfolding of the electronic device, enabling a thin and compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing foldable apparatus structures are used to implement folding and unfolding, then the folding function is achieved, but the structure becomes complex and the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple support functions into a single middle support plate that can simultaneously support the flexible display in both folded and unfolded states. The connecting rod integrates both support and connection functions, eliminating the need for separate components and simplifying the overall structure while maintaining the folding capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The middle support plate serves multiple functions: it supports the flexible display in the unfolded state, provides a stopping position in the folded state, and works with the connecting rod to enable the folding motion. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of components needed in the foldable apparatus.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing foldable apparatus structures are used to implement folding and unfolding, then the folding function is achieved, but the device weight and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary components from traditional foldable apparatus designs. By removing redundant support structures and connection mechanisms, the overall weight and size of the device are reduced while the essential folding function is preserved through the simplified middle support plate and connecting rod assembly.
3Device complexity
If a simplified structure is designed for the foldable apparatus, then the device size is reduced, but the structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The middle support plate is designed with a specific geometry that preliminarily establishes the correct spatial relationship between the flexible display and the support structure. The stopping position feature is pre-configured to automatically engage at the folded state, ensuring structural stability without requiring additional complex locking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting rod employs an arc-shaped design that provides smooth rotational motion and distributes mechanical stresses more evenly during folding and unfolding. This curved geometry enhances structural stability by reducing stress concentration points while maintaining a simple overall structure.
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 proposed foldable apparatus achieves a simplified structural design and miniaturized size, enhancing the electronic device's portability and usability while maintaining structural stability and supporting the flexible display effectively.
Implementation Method 1
the first hinge connecting rod and the second hinge connecting rod rotate relative to the main shaft
Implementation Method 2
the first gear is meshed with the first tooth part of the middle support plate, and the second gear is meshed with the second tooth part
Implementation Method 3
the first support plate slides relative to the first connecting rod, the second support plate slides relative to the second connecting rod
Data Source
AI summary
A foldable apparatus (10, 20) and an electronic device (100) including the foldable apparatus are disclosed. The foldable apparatus includes a first support plate (11), a middle support plate (12), a second support plate (13), a main shaft (14), a first gear connecting rod (15), and a second gear connecting rod (16). A first tooth part (121) and a second tooth part (122) on the middle support plate are respectively meshed with a first gear (151) on the first gear connecting rod and a second gear (161) on the second gear connecting rod, so that the middle support plate slides relative to the main shaft.