Foldable Hinge Mechanism for Flat Flexible Display Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hinge mechanisms for foldable electronic devices are complex and costly, with significant step differences affecting the flatness of the unfolded support surface and the light and shadow effect of the flexible display.
Innovation Solution
A hinge mechanism with a base and a main shaft module, including rotating assemblies with swing arms and housing fastening brackets, that provide flat support for the flexible display in both unfolded and folded states, reducing step differences and improving structural reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a three-door plate support or double-door plate support is used in the hinge mechanism, then the flexible display can be supported in both folded and unfolded states, but the structure becomes complex and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the support functions for both folded and unfolded states into a single door plate structure. The first door plate includes a first support surface for supporting the flexible display in the folded state, while the second door plate includes a second support surface for supporting the flexible display in the unfolded state. This merging of functions reduces the number of components from three or two door plates to just two door plates, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining the required support capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
Each door plate is designed to serve multiple functions: the first door plate serves as both a structural component for housing connection and a support surface for the flexible display in the folded state. Similarly, the second door plate serves as both a structural component and a support surface in the unfolded state. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated support components, thereby reducing structural complexity.
2Reliability
If multiple support members are used to support the flexible display, then the display can be supported in both states, but step differences between components increase, affecting flatness and light and shadow effect
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces the number of support members by merging functions into fewer components. Instead of using multiple separate support members for different states, the design uses the first and second door plates themselves as support surfaces, with each door plate's support surface directly integrated into the door plate structure. This reduces the number of interfaces and potential step differences between components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent specifies that the first support surface and second support surface should be substantially coplanar when the electronic device is in the unfolded state. This local quality requirement ensures that the support surfaces maintain a consistent plane, minimizing step differences and improving the flatness of the flexible display support, thereby enhancing the light and shadow effect.
Data Source
AI summary
A foldable electronic device and a hinge mechanism thereof are provided. In addition to the hinge mechanism, the electronic device further includes two housings and a flexible display. The two housings are respectively disposed on two opposite sides of the hinge mechanism and are rotatably connected to the hinge mechanism. The hinge mechanism includes a base and a main shaft module. The base includes a bearing surface. The main shaft module includes two rotating assemblies. The two rotating assemblies are disposed on two opposite sides of the base. Each rotating assembly includes a swing arm and a housing fastening bracket, and each housing fastening bracket may be fastened to a housing on a corresponding side. In an unfolded state, the bearing surface independently supports a foldable portion of the flexible display. In a folded state, a screen accommodation space is formed between the two housing fastening brackets and the base.