Foldable Device Four-Shaft Linkage Screen Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional foldable electronic devices face challenges in balancing keypad size and screen configuration, where either the keypad area is small due to sliding mechanisms or the cost increases with double-screen designs.
Innovation Solution
A four shaft linkage mechanism is employed, with two connecting rods pivoted on each side of the frames, allowing the screen to always face the user while maintaining a large keypad area and single screen configuration, reducing manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a sliding cover design is used, then the screen can be protected, but the keypad area becomes small
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic folding mechanism with connecting rods and axles that allows the device to transition between open and closed states. This dynamic structure enables the screen to be protected when closed while maintaining a large keypad area when open, resolving the contradiction between screen protection and keypad size.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is divided into separate functional modules: a first frame containing the screen, a second frame containing the keypad, and connecting rods that link them. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the screen can be protected by folding the first frame over the second, while the keypad area remains unobstructed.
2Area of stationary object
If a lifting cover design with two screens is used, then the keypad area becomes larger, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single screen in the first frame serves multiple functions: it displays information when the device is open and acts as a protective cover when closed. This eliminates the need for a second screen while maintaining the ability to protect the display, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while preserving a large keypad area.
Solution Approach 2:
The screen itself serves as the protective cover by being positioned on the first frame that folds over the keypad area. This self-service approach eliminates the need for additional protective components or a second screen, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining a large keypad.
3Ease of manufacture
If a single screen design is used, then the manufacturing cost is reduced, but the keypad area is occupied by the sliding mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting rods and axles create a dynamic linkage mechanism that allows the first frame to fold over the second frame without requiring a sliding mechanism. This dynamic folding action protects the screen while keeping the keypad area completely clear and accessible, resolving the contradiction between single-screen cost-effectiveness and keypad availability.
Data Source
AI summary
A foldable electronic device including a first frame, a second frame, a first connecting rod, and a second connecting rod is provided. The first connecting rod has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end and the second end are respectively pivoted on one side of the first frame and the second frame. The second connecting rod has a third end and a fourth end, wherein the third end and the fourth end are respectively pivoted on the other side of the first frame and the second frame. The first connecting rod is suitable for rotating along a first axle, and the second connecting rod is suitable for rotating along a second axle, wherein the first axle is not coaxial with the second axle.