Graphene Window Module Impact Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flexible display devices require a window module that can withstand external impacts while maintaining flexibility and optical clarity, as existing solutions fail to provide adequate impact resistance and durability without compromising folding characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A window module comprising a base film with a window protection layer that includes a barrier layer, an impact absorbing layer, and a first impact transmitting layer with graphene or carbon nanotubes, which disperses and transmits external impacts effectively, ensuring both impact resistance and optical clarity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a thick protective layer is added to improve impact resistance, then impact resistance is improved, but light transmittance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite window protection layer comprising multiple materials with different properties: a barrier layer (polyimide, polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, or polymethylmethacrylate) for structural integrity, an impact absorbing layer (thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoset polyurethane, polyether block amide, copolyester thermoplastic elastomer, or silicone) for energy dissipation, and graphene or carbon nanotubes for enhanced mechanical strength. This composite structure achieves high impact resistance while maintaining optical clarity through careful material selection and layer optimization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different materials and structures to different regions and depths of the window protection layer. The barrier layer provides rigid protection at the surface, the impact absorbing layer provides cushioning in the middle region, and the graphene/carbon nanotube layer provides localized reinforcement. This spatial differentiation of material properties allows simultaneous optimization of impact resistance and light transmittance
2Strength
If a rigid protective layer is used to improve impact resistance, then impact resistance is improved, but flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes thin film structures for all layers of the window protection layer, with each layer designed to be sufficiently thin to maintain flexibility while providing protective functions. The barrier layer, impact absorbing layer, and graphene/carbon nanotube layer are all configured as thin films that can bend and deform with the flexible display device, enabling the device to be curved, folded, or rolled without compromising protection
Solution Approach 2:
The composite structure combines materials with different mechanical properties: rigid barrier layer materials (polycarbonate, polymethylmethacrylate) provide impact resistance, while flexible materials (thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoset polyurethane, polyether block amide, copolyester thermoplastic elastomer, silicone) provide flexibility and elasticity. This material combination allows the window protection layer to withstand impacts while accommodating bending and folding operations
3Strength
If multiple layers are added to improve impact resistance, then impact resistance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the window protection layer into three distinct functional layers: a barrier layer for scratch resistance and structural support, an impact absorbing layer for energy dissipation, and a graphene or carbon nanotube layer for enhanced strength-to-weight ratio. Each layer is optimized for its specific function, allowing the system to achieve high impact resistance through coordinated action of simplified individual components rather than a single complex structure
Data Source
AI summary
A window module includes a base film being optically clear and a window protection layer disposed on the base film. The window protection layer includes a barrier layer disposed on the base film, an impact absorbing layer disposed between the base film and the barrier layer, and a first impact transmitting layer disposed between the barrier layer and the impact absorbing layer. A modulus of the impact absorbing layer is less than a modulus of the barrier layer, and the first impact transmitting layer includes graphene or carbon nanotubes.