Foldable Electronic Device Linkage for Screen Support and Yielding Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional foldable electronic devices face issues such as insufficient support force for the flexible display screen in the unfolded state, insufficient yielding space in the folded state, and asynchronous operation during state transitions.
Innovation Solution
A foldable electronic device utilizing symmetrically coordinated four-bar linkage structures, transmission elements, wing elements, support plates, and actuation modules, with arc-shaped grooves and sliders, and a synchronous engaging module to ensure smooth switching between unfolded and folded states, enhanced support, and yielding space through magnets and elastic modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If conventional hinge structures are used, then the device can switch between unfolded and folded states, but the support force for the flexible display screen in the unfolded state is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge structure is divided into multiple independent linkage mechanisms (first linkage mechanism and second linkage mechanism) that operate symmetrically on left and right sides. Each linkage mechanism includes specific components (linkage arms, connection plates, springs) that work independently to provide support force, allowing the system to achieve sufficient support while maintaining manageable complexity through modular segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional components are merged into integrated linkage mechanisms. The connection plates combine support and connection functions, the springs integrate elastic support with mechanical linkage, and the symmetric dual-linkage system merges left and right side operations into a coordinated unified mechanism that provides enhanced support force.
2Volume of moving object
If conventional hinge structures are used, then the device can switch between unfolded and folded states, but the yielding space for the flexible display screen in the folded state is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage mechanisms incorporate elastic springs that provide dynamic, adaptive support. The springs allow the linkage arms to move flexibly during folding and unfolding, creating sufficient yielding space for the flexible display screen while the elastic properties maintain structural integrity. The dynamic nature of the spring-loaded mechanism enables the system to accommodate volume changes during state transitions.
3Ease of operation
If conventional hinge structures are used, then the device can switch between unfolded and folded states, but the operation is asynchronous and unsmooth
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs symmetric asymmetry - the left and right linkage mechanisms are mirror images of each other with identical structural parameters. This symmetric design ensures that both sides operate simultaneously and synchronously during folding and unfolding motions. The symmetry in the linkage arm lengths, spring characteristics, and connection geometries guarantees smooth, coordinated operation without asynchronous movements.
4Reliability
If symmetric four-bar linkage structures are applied, then synchronous folding is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The symmetric four-bar linkage structures are applied locally to each side (left and right) independently, with each side having its own optimized linkage mechanism. This localized application allows for simplified design and manufacturing of individual linkages while maintaining overall system symmetry. The local optimization of linkage parameters (arm lengths, joint positions, spring constants) ensures reliable synchronous operation without requiring complex global coordination mechanisms.
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 device provides improved support force and yielding space, ensuring smooth and durable operation by synchronizing the transition between unfolded and folded states, enhancing user experience.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic module and a flexible screen... the elastic module includes a pushing element slidably sleeved on the first shaft rod and the second shaft rod and movably engaged with the first transmission element and the second transmission element
Implementation Method 2
When switching to a folded state, a supporting plate is pressed by protruding portions and magnetically attracted by magnets
Data Source
AI summary
A foldable electronic device includes a central body, a connecting module, a first wing, a first transmission element, a first panel body, a second wing, a second transmission element, a second panel body, a synchronous engaging module, an elastic module and a flexible screen. The first panel body and the second panel body are capable of switching between an unfolded state and a folded state. When the first panel body and the second panel body are in the unfolded state, a first supporting plate, a second supporting plate and a lifting plate collectively support a flexible section. When the first panel body and the second panel body are in the folded state, the first supporting plate, the second supporting plate and the lifting plate collectively define a yielding space for accommodating the flexible section.