Foldable Device Hinge Dustproof Fiber Structure

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Solution Overview

Problem

Foldable electronic devices face issues with foreign matter infiltration through gaps in the hinge module, leading to potential malfunctions and display defects.

Innovation Solution

A fiber structure is deployed around the hinge module to prevent and reduce foreign matter infiltration, utilizing movable fibers and a base for fixation, which can deform to fill gaps and block external particles.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a gap is maintained between the hinge module and housing for smooth operation, then the hinge module can fold or unfold smoothly, but foreign matter may infiltrate into the device through the gap

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefolding operation smoothnessVSAvoidforeign matter infiltration
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A fiber structure is introduced as an intermediary element between the hinge module and housing. This fiber structure fills the gap when the device is folded, preventing foreign matter infiltration, while allowing the hinge module to maintain smooth folding operations through the use of flexible materials that accommodate movement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The fiber structure acts as a flexible barrier that can deform with the hinge module's movement. This flexible structure maintains the gap necessary for smooth operation while providing dustproof protection when folded, resolving the contradiction between operational smoothness and foreign matter prevention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

2Device complexity

If foreign matter infiltrates through the gap, then the device structure remains simple, but the hinge module may malfunction or the display may be damaged

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure simplicityVSAvoidhinge module operation reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The fiber structure serves as a simple intermediary component that provides reliable protection against foreign matter infiltration. This relatively simple addition prevents hinge module malfunction and display damage without significantly increasing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The flexible fiber structure provides an effective barrier against foreign matter while maintaining structural simplicity. This thin, flexible layer protects the hinge module and display from contamination and damage without adding substantial complexity to the device architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Data Source

PatentEP4018630B1Foldable electronic device having dustproof structure
Publication Date: 2024.04.10 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • EP4018630B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4018630B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4018630B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An electronic device includes: a first housing, a second housing, a display, a hinge, and a fiber structure including at least one fiber disposed in a portion where the first housing or the second housing and the hinge overlap each other. The hinge includes a multi-joint arrangement, a first sliding part and a second sliding part. The fiber structure includes a fiber part including at least one fiber, at least a portion of which contacts the first sliding part or the second sliding part, the fiber part configured to be deformed based on a movement of the first sliding part or the second sliding part, and a base that fixes the fiber part.