Interlocking Device for Flexible Display Fatigue Life
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flexible display devices face reduced fatigue life due to increased strain when attached to rigid members, leading to buckling and aesthetic issues, as existing attachment methods do not adequately manage stress and strain during folding or bending cycles.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device design featuring a flexible component layer attached to rigid members via interlocking devices, which include first and second interlocking components that engage to prevent separation perpendicular to the rigid member's surface, allowing for smooth bending and folding while minimizing strain on the flexible display.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If flexible display components are attached to rigid members using existing attachment methods, then the structural support is provided, but the fatigue life is reduced due to increased strain during folding or bending cycles
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into multiple discrete interlocking components (first interlocking component on flexible display, second interlocking component on rigid member) that work together to distribute and manage stress during folding cycles, preventing concentrated strain that would reduce fatigue life
Solution Approach 2:
The interlocking device acts as an intermediary mechanism between the flexible display and rigid member, providing a controlled connection that allows relative movement during folding while maintaining structural support, thereby reducing strain on the flexible display components
2Ease of manufacture
If existing attachment methods are used to connect flexible display to rigid members, then attachment is achieved, but buckling and aesthetic issues occur due to inadequate stress management
Solution Approach 1:
The interlocking device is designed to be dynamic rather than rigid, allowing controlled movement and deformation during folding cycles. The components can flex and adjust their position to accommodate the bending motion, preventing buckling and maintaining a smooth aesthetic interface while still providing secure attachment
3Strength
If rigid attachment is used to prevent separation, then connection strength is improved, but strain on flexible display increases during folding cycles
Solution Approach 1:
The interlocking device changes the mechanical parameters of the connection by transitioning from a rigid fixed-position attachment to a dynamic attachment that allows controlled movement. This parameter change enables the connection to maintain strength while accommodating strain during folding through elastic deformation and controlled slippage of the interlocking features
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Electronic Devices Incorporating Flexible Component Layers with Interlocking Devices At least some aspects of the present disclosure directs to an electronic device 100 comprising a rigid member100A, 100B, a flexible component layer 130, and an interlocking device 110A, HOB disposed between the flexible component layer and the rigid member. The flexible component layer has at least two sections when the flexible component layer is flexed. The interlocking device comprises a first interlocking component attached to or integrated with the flexible component layer, and a second interlocking component attached to or integrated with the rigid member configured to engage with the first interlocking component, such that the engagement prevents the separation of the flexible component layer from the rigid member along a direction generally perpendicular to a surface of the rigid member.