Free-form display with segmented pixel matrix and flexible medium
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current flexible displays have limited flexibility and cannot be freely shaped like fabric or cloth, restricting their use as wearable devices that can maintain display function when folded, bent, or crumpled.
Innovation Solution
A free-form display comprising a flexible substrate with unit pixel substrates arranged in a matrix, connected by flexible medium and connecting lines, and topped with a water-repellent layer and antifouling film, allowing the display to maintain functionality even when folded, bent, or crumpled.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If flexible displays are made with conventional rectangular plate-like structure, then they can be bent or rolled up to a certain radius, but they have limited flexibility and cannot freely alter their shape like fabric or cloth
Solution Approach 1:
The display is divided into multiple unit pixel substrates arranged in a matrix, where each unit pixel substrate can independently move relative to others. This segmentation allows the display to be folded, crumpled, or bent in various configurations while maintaining display function, enabling fabric-like shape freedom.
Solution Approach 2:
The display structure transitions from a fixed rectangular plate to a dynamic configuration where unit pixel substrates can change their relative positions and orientations. The flexible medium and connecting lines enable continuous shape transformation, allowing the display to adapt to different wearability requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the display is made to be highly flexible and foldable, then it can be worn like fabric, but the display function may be compromised when folded or bent repeatedly
Solution Approach 1:
The display uses flexible substrate and flexible medium made of thin film structures that can withstand repeated folding and bending without compromising the underlying display elements. The water-repellent layer and antifouling film provide additional protection while maintaining flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible medium fills gaps between unit pixel substrates and provides cushioning protection to the connecting lines and display elements during folding and bending operations, preventing damage before it occurs.
3Area of stationary object
If unit pixel substrates are closely arranged to improve display density, then the display area increases, but the flexibility and ability to fold without damage decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting lines are extracted and placed in the gaps between unit pixel substrates, filled by the flexible medium. This separation allows unit pixel substrates to be closely arranged for high display density while the flexible medium provides the necessary space and flexibility for folding operations.
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 display maintains its functionality and flexibility, enabling it to be worn without limiting user movement, as it can freely alter its shape like fabric, making it suitable for wearable applications.
Implementation Method 1
organic light-emitting diode displays, which have high energy efficiency and less leakage current and facilitate grayscale representation through current control
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a free-form display that can freely alter its shape by connecting a plurality of micro display elements by a flexible medium. The free-form display comprises a flexible substrate, a plurality of unit pixel substrates, and a flexible medium. The unit pixel substrates are arranged in a matrix on the flexible substrate. The flexible medium fills gaps between the unit pixel substrates.