Folding Module Central Joint Stress Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable electronic devices face challenges in maintaining the flatness and reducing deformation of the folding area due to stress accumulation during repeated folding and unfolding, leading to potential damage and user inconvenience.
Innovation Solution
The electronic device incorporates a folding module with a central joint, multi-joint bodies, and hinges that distribute stress and maintain the shape of the display panel, featuring a plate with grooves to support the folding area and a hinge holder system that reduces deformation by accommodating the stress when the device is folded or unfolded.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple hinge structure is used for folding, then device complexity is reduced, but deformation of the folding area increases due to stress accumulation
Solution Approach 1:
The folding structure is divided into multiple segments: first and second support members, first and second hinges, first and second multi-joint bodies, and a central joint. This segmentation allows each component to bear specific stress loads, preventing deformation accumulation and maintaining display panel flatness while managing complexity through functional division.
Solution Approach 2:
Different components are strategically positioned to provide localized support: support members are placed below non-folding areas, hinges are positioned below the folding area, and multi-joint bodies are coupled to support members. This local quality distribution ensures stress is managed where needed most, preventing folding area deformation.
2Device complexity
If stress concentration occurs in the folding area, then structural simplicity is maintained, but reliability decreases due to potential damage from repeated folding
Solution Approach 1:
The folding module is segmented into multiple load-bearing components (support members, hinges, multi-joint bodies) that distribute stress away from concentration points. This segmentation enhances reliability by preventing stress accumulation at any single location during repeated folding cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The central joint acts as an intermediary element between the first and second multi-joint bodies, facilitating stress transfer and distribution. This intermediary structure prevents direct stress concentration while maintaining structural integrity through repeated folding operations.
3Shape
If a complex multi-joint body structure is used, then stress distribution improves and deformation reduces, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex stress distribution function is achieved through segmentation into standardized components (hinges, multi-joint bodies, support members) rather than a monolithic complex structure. This segmentation maintains flatness while managing complexity through modular, interchangeable parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge components serve multiple functions: they act as rotation joints, support elements, and stress distribution points. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components, thereby managing overall device complexity while achieving effective stress distribution.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes a display panel and a folding module disposed below the display panel. The folding module includes a first support member, a second support member, a first hinge slidably coupled to the first support member, a second hinge slidably coupled to the second support member, a first multi joint body coupled to the first support member, a second multi joint body spaced apart from the first multi joint body in a first direction and coupled to the second support member, and a central joint disposed between the first multi joint body and the second multi joint body. The central joint is coupled to the first multi joint body and the second multi joint body, and overlaps at least a portion of the first multi joint body and at least a portion of the second multi joint body in a plan view.