Foldable Sensor Layer for Integrated Folding Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multimedia electronic devices lack an efficient and cost-effective mechanism to sense the degree of folding, which can lead to increased thickness and weight due to the inclusion of separate modules for folding detection.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a sensor layer with a folding axis and a sensor driver that senses folding by detecting induced currents through a network of electrodes and trace lines, allowing the device to operate in multiple modes for touch, pen input, and folding detection, thereby eliminating the need for additional modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If a separate module is added for folding detection, then folding sensing capability is improved, but device thickness and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the folding detection function with the existing sensor layer by adding auxiliary electrodes and trace lines to the touch sensor structure. The sensor layer simultaneously performs both touch sensing and folding detection functions, eliminating the need for a separate folding detection module and thereby avoiding increased device weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor layer is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both a touch sensing component and a folding detection component. By making the sensor layer universal, the patent avoids adding extra modules that would increase device weight while maintaining both touch input and folding detection capabilities.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If a separate module is added for folding detection, then folding sensing capability is improved, but device thickness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the folding detection structure within the existing sensor layer thickness by incorporating auxiliary electrodes and trace lines into the touch sensor architecture. This merging approach allows folding detection without adding separate modules that would increase device thickness.
Solution Approach 2:
The folding detection structure is nested within the sensor layer itself. The auxiliary electrodes and trace lines are embedded in the same layered structure as the touch sensing components, creating a nested configuration that provides folding detection capability without increasing overall device thickness.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If additional modules are added for folding detection, then folding sensing capability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the folding detection function with the existing sensor layer manufacturing process. By using the same fabrication steps to create both touch sensing electrodes and folding detection auxiliary electrodes, the patent eliminates the need for separate module production and assembly, thereby reducing manufacturing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor layer is designed as a universal component that performs both touch sensing and folding detection. This multi-functionality allows a single manufacturing process to produce both functions simultaneously, avoiding the need for separate modules and the associated increased manufacturing complexity and cost.
4Measurement precision
If the sensor layer structure is expanded with additional electrodes and trace lines, then folding detection precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor layer is segmented into functional regions: touch sensing areas with first and second electrodes, and folding detection areas with auxiliary electrodes and trace lines. This segmentation allows the folding detection function to be added in a structured manner that improves precision while maintaining manageable complexity through clear functional separation.
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
Enables accurate folding detection without adding bulk or cost, reducing manufacturing expenses and providing a compact design by integrating folding sensing directly into the display panel.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor driver is configured to sense a folding of the sensor layer by sensing an induced current induced by the first-first auxiliary electrode and the first-second auxiliary electrode
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2~3
Figure 4A
AI summary
An electronic device includes: a sensor layer configured to be folded or unfolded about a folding axis extending in a first direction; and a sensor driver configured to drive the sensor layer. The sensor layer includes: first electrodes along the first direction; second electrodes along a second direction crossing the first direction; a first electrode group including first auxiliary electrodes along the second direction; a first auxiliary trace line electrically connected with the first auxiliary electrodes; a first signal transmission line electrically connected with a first-first auxiliary electrode among the first auxiliary electrodes; and a second signal transmission line electrically connected with a first-second auxiliary electrode spaced from the first-first auxiliary electrode in the second direction among the first auxiliary electrodes. The sensor driver is configured to sense a folding of the sensor layer by sensing an induced current induced by the first-first auxiliary electrode and the first-second auxiliary electrode.