Foldable Hinge Module Linkage Mechanism for Display Wrinkle Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional foldable electronic device hinges have complex mechanisms that compromise transmission stability and can cause wrinkles or peeling of flexible displays due to direct pivoting structures and forces during the folding process, leading to increased volume and production costs.
Innovation Solution
A hinge module with a simplified mechanism using a sliding cover, linkage rod, and linkage plate with oblong holes to distribute folding forces, reducing the risk of display damage and allowing for a more compact design by accommodating the curved display through elastic adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a direct pivoting structure with physical shaft is used to connect hinge bodies, then the folding mechanism can be implemented, but the transmission stability deteriorates and the flexible display is prone to wrinkles or peeling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a linkage mechanism comprising linkage rods and linkage plates as intermediary elements between the hinge bodies and the flexible display. These intermediaries transform the direct pivoting action into a distributed linkage motion, improving transmission stability and preventing display damage while maintaining folding functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism is divided into multiple segments including first and second hinge bodies, multiple linkage rods, and linkage plates. This segmentation distributes the folding forces across multiple components rather than concentrating them at a single pivoting point, thereby enhancing reliability and reducing stress on the flexible display
2Manufacturing precision
If a complex mechanism with multiple components is used to compensate folding path, then the folding accuracy improves, but the device complexity increases and production costs rise
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage plates serve multiple functions simultaneously: they act as structural connectors, provide folding path compensation through their geometric design, and guide the motion of linkage rods. This multi-functionality achieves accurate folding compensation while minimizing the number of separate components needed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of folding compensation and structural support into integrated linkage plates that combine geometric compensation features with mechanical connection capabilities. This consolidation reduces the total component count and simplifies the overall mechanism while maintaining folding accuracy
3Ease of operation
If traditional hinge structures are used, then the folding function is achieved, but the overall volume increases and the device becomes thicker
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage rods and linkage plates are designed to nest within each other during the folding process. When the device is folded, the linkage components collapse into a compact configuration, minimizing the overall volume and thickness of the hinge mechanism while maintaining full folding functionality
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 hinge module stabilizes the transmission process, reduces production costs, and extends the life of flexible displays by distributing folding forces and allowing for a more compact, thinner device design.
Implementation Method 1
at least one first restoring member respectively connected to the first connecting portion and the first housing... at least one second restoring member respectively connected to the second connecting portion and the first housing
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge module for a foldable type device has one end-surface connected to a flexible display and has another end-surface respectively connected to a first housing and a second housing. The hinge module comprises a base and a first sliding mechanism. The first sliding mechanism comprises a first supporting plate, a first sliding cover, a first linkage rod, a linkage plate and at least one first restoring member. The first supporting plate and the linkage plate are respectively pivotally connected to the first-lateral-pivoting-portion and the first-central-pivoting-portion. A second limiting portion of a first sliding cover is used to limit the first limiting portion of the first supporting plate in a way of relatively sliding. Thus, when the first limiting portion slides relative to the second limiting portion, the first supporting plate is moved to accommodate the curved-central-part of the flexible display.