Multi-Axis Hinge Structure for Foldable Displays in Tight Fold Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable electronic devices with narrow folding areas face challenges in arranging structures to support hinge motions due to limited space, making it difficult to optimize the arrangement and function of hinge structures.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a hinge structure with multiple components, including a bracket structure, arm detent structure, gear structure, and detent support structure, which allow for rotary motion and simultaneous operation of housing components, enabling efficient folding and unfolding while supporting various angles and suppressing torsion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the screen size is increased to provide various functions through a wider screen, then the functionality is improved, but the portability is decreased
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two separate housings that can be folded relative to each other, allowing the large screen to be segmented into a compact form when not in use. The display area is split across two housings that can be folded at an angle, effectively reducing the device's footprint while maintaining the large display area for enhanced functionality.
2Weight of moving object
If a foldable structure is used to increase portability, then the portability is improved, but the space for arranging hinge support structures is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple support structures (first support structure, second support structure, third support structure) are merged into a compact hinge assembly that fits within the narrow folding area. The support structures are arranged in a layered configuration where some are positioned on the front surface and others on the rear surface of the hinge, maximizing space utilization in the limited folding area.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structures are arranged in multiple dimensions within the hinge assembly. The first and second support structures are arranged in a first direction, while the third support structure is arranged in a second direction different from the first direction. This multi-dimensional arrangement allows efficient packing of support structures within the constrained folding space.
3Reliability
If multiple support structures are arranged to support hinge motions, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge structure is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously. The first support structure supports rotation about the first axis, the second support structure supports rotation about the second axis, and the third support structure provides additional rotational support. This multi-functional hinge assembly ensures reliable hinge motion in multiple directions while maintaining a unified structural design.
Data Source
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AI summary
A portable communication device comprising two housings, a hinge structure connecting the two housings, and a flexible display accommodated in the two housings. The hinge structure includes a first and second arm rotating about a first and second axis, respectively, a first and second fixing part, a fixed bracket including a first and second rail groove, a first and second rotary bracket including a first and second sliding opening and a first and second arc-shaped rail formed therein, respectively, wherein the first and second fixing part slides along the first and second sliding opening as the first and second arm rotates about the first and second axis, respectively, the first and second rotary bracket being coupled with the fixed bracket such that the first and second rotary bracket rotates about a third and fourth axis by the first and second arc-shaped rail slides along the first and second rail groove, respectively.