Foldable Display-Camera Switching for Space-Efficient Preview

Solution Overview

Problem

Foldable electronic devices face inefficiencies in displaying preview images due to unnecessary electrical connections between displays and cameras, which waste space and hinder optimal component placement.

Innovation Solution

A switch structure is used to electrically connect a processor to either a display or a camera based on the device's operating state, allowing adaptive and efficient image preview by selectively turning on or off these components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If unnecessary electrical connection structures for displays and cameras are present, then the device can support multiple operating states, but the preview image display becomes inefficient and space is wasted

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesupport for multiple operating statesVSAvoidpreview image display efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic electrical connections through switches that can change connectivity states based on the operating mode. In unfolded state, the first display connects to the processor while the second camera remains disconnected. In folded state, the connection dynamically switches to connect the second camera and second display to the processor, optimizing performance for each state without maintaining unnecessary permanent connections.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If unnecessary electrical connection structures are present, then component compatibility is maintained, but device space for mounting other components is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecomponent compatibilityVSAvoiddevice space for mounting components

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and removes unnecessary electrical connection structures from the device architecture. By implementing selective connectivity through switches, the design eliminates the need for permanent connection paths that would be required if all components were always connected, thereby freeing up device space for other components while maintaining adaptability through dynamic reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Adaptability or versatility

If both main display and cover camera are connected simultaneously, then all components are available, but space for mounting other components is wasted

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecomponent availabilityVSAvoidmounting space

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic electrical connections through switches that can change connectivity states based on the operating mode. In unfolded state, the first display connects to the processor while the second camera remains disconnected. In folded state, the connection dynamically switches to connect the second camera and second display to the processor, optimizing performance for each state without maintaining unnecessary permanent connections.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12498765B2Method for displaying preview image and electronic device supporting the same

Publication Date: 2025.12.16 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

A foldable electronic device and method for the same are disclosed herein. The foldable electronic device includes at least one display, a sensor, at least one camera, a processor, at least one switch electrically connecting the at least one display, at least one camera and processor. The processor implements the method, including: detecting an operating state of the device via the sensor, and controlling the at least one switch to selectively connect the processor to one of the display and the at least one camera, based on the detected operating state.