Folding Sensing Module for Electronic Panel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable electronic devices lack an efficient method to sense their folding state, which complicates manufacturing and assembly, and increases costs due to complex configurations.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device with a folding sensing module that includes a conductive sensing pad and a driver, connected via a sensing line, which applies electrical signals to detect changes in separation distance and hole shape due to folding, allowing the device to determine its folding degree and angle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a folding sensing module is added to detect folding state, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical folding detection mechanisms with an electrical sensing system. The folding sensing module uses electrical signals applied to the folding portion to detect folding state through changes in electrical properties, eliminating the need for mechanical switches or complex mechanical sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The folding portion itself serves as the sensing element. By applying electrical signals directly to the folding portion and measuring changes in its electrical properties (such as capacitance or resistance) in response to folding, the system uses the structural component being measured as part of the sensing mechanism, reducing the need for separate dedicated sensing components.
2Measurement precision
If a complex folding detection system is implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The folding sensing module shares electrical infrastructure with the display system. The same voltage lines and control circuits used for display operation are utilized for folding detection, allowing a single system to perform both display and sensing functions without requiring entirely separate manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
By replacing mechanical sensing components with electrical sensing methods, the patent reduces manufacturing complexity. Electrical patterns can be formed using standard semiconductor fabrication processes rather than requiring precision mechanical assembly of sensing components.
3Measurement precision
If additional sensing components are added, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the folding sensing function with the existing display structure. The sensing electrodes are integrated into the display panel layers, and the folding detection functionality is merged with the display control circuitry, allowing both functions to be assembled together rather than as separate subsystems.
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 the electronic device to accurately sense its folding state with a simplified configuration, reducing manufacturing costs and simplifying the assembly process while maintaining effective functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a folding sensing module including a sensing pad having a conductivity, a driver applying an electrical signal to the sensing pad, and a sensing line connecting the sensing pad and the driver
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes: an electronic panel including a first area, a folding area, and a second area, arranged along a first direction, the folding area being folded with respect to a folding axis defined in a second direction crossing the first direction; a support layer under the electronic panel and comprising a folding portion overlapping the folding area and provided with a plurality of holes defined therethrough, a first portion overlapping the first area, and a second portion overlapping the second area; and a folding sensing module comprising a sensing pad being electrically conductive, a driver configured to apply an electrical signal to the sensing pad, and a sensing line connecting the sensing pad and the driver.