Foldable Panel Metal Layer for Static Discharge Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rollable display devices face issues with static electricity generation due to friction between layers when rolled, leading to an increased risk of electrostatic discharge and component damage.
Innovation Solution
The electronic device incorporates a foldable panel with a metal layer disposed on its substrate, positioned between the first and second portions of the panel in a folded mode, to reduce friction and static electricity accumulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a rollable display device is folded or rolled, then the device can be compacted for portability, but friction between layers generates static electricity that increases the risk of electrostatic discharge and component damage
Solution Approach 1:
A discharger layer is introduced as an intermediary conductive element between the first and second portions of the foldable panel. This discharger layer provides a controlled path for static electricity to dissipate safely, preventing harmful electrostatic discharge while allowing the panel to be folded or rolled for portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful static electricity generated by friction during folding into a beneficial controlled discharge mechanism. The discharger layer captures and safely dissipates the static charge that would otherwise damage components, turning the harmful electrostatic effect into a controlled and harmless discharge process.
2Volume of moving object
If layers are folded or rolled, then the device achieves compact form factor, but friction between layers generates static electricity that damages components
Solution Approach 1:
The discharger layer serves as a mediator between the friction-generated static charge and the sensitive electronic components. It provides a safe discharge path that protects components from electrostatic damage while allowing the compact folding or rolling action to occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The discharger layer is pre-installed on the foldable panel before folding or rolling occurs. This proactive measure ensures that when friction generates static electricity during the folding action, the discharge path is already in place to prevent component damage, providing beforehand protection against reliability issues.
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 solution effectively reduces the likelihood of electrostatic discharge by minimizing friction between panel portions and providing a conductive path for static electricity release, thereby enhancing the reliability and yield of the display device.
Implementation Method 1
The metal layer is disposed on the second surface of the substrate... in a folded mode, at least a part of the metal layer is disposed between the first portion and the second portion of the foldable panel
Implementation Method 2
static electricity may be generated in normal rollable display devices due to the friction between layers when the devices is being rolled
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes a foldable panel and a metal layer. The foldable panel includes a substrate having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, a circuit layer disposed on the first surface of the substrate, and a cover layer disposed on the first surface of the substrate. The circuit layer is disposed between the substrate and the cover layer. The metal layer is disposed on the second surface of the substrate. The foldable panel includes a first portion and a second portion, and in a folded mode, at least a part of the metal layer is disposed between the first portion and the second portion of the foldable panel.