Multi-Foldable Display Metal Plate for Dual-Curvature Hinges

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Solution Overview

Problem

Multi-foldable electronic devices face challenges in accommodating elastic deformation of back plates with different curvatures due to the stiffness difference between the back plate and display substrate, particularly when multiple folding directions and radii of curvature are involved.

Innovation Solution

A multi-foldable electronic device is designed with a flexible metal plate featuring differential patterns in the folding areas to support stable in-folding and out-folding operations, utilizing distinct patterns for each folding unit to accommodate varying curvatures.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Weight of moving object

If a single touchscreen display device is used, then portability is improved, but functionality and productivity are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveportabilityVSAvoidfunctionality
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The electronic device is divided into multiple independent display panels that can be separated and used individually, or combined to form a larger display system. Each panel functions as a complete device when separated, providing portability, while combining multiple panels delivers enhanced functionality for productivity tasks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple electronic devices are used to achieve multi-tasking, then functionality is improved, but portability and ease of operation deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-tasking capabilityVSAvoidoperational simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple display panels are merged into a single integrated device that maintains the operational simplicity of one device while providing the multi-tasking capability of multiple devices. The panels can be arranged in various configurations and controlled through a unified interface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

Each display panel is designed to be universally functional, capable of operating independently as a complete device or combining with other panels. This multi-functionality allows the system to adapt to different usage scenarios while maintaining ease of operation through consistent controls.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple electronic devices are connected via wireless communication, then functionality is improved, but power consumption and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecollaborative functionalityVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The connection architecture is designed with asymmetry where one panel acts as a master controller and other panels serve as dependent displays. This reduces the need for full bidirectional wireless communication between all panels, thereby reducing overall power consumption while maintaining collaborative functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Data Source

PatentEP4184281B1Multi-foldable electronic device
Publication Date: 2026.05.06 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • EP4184281B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4184281B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4184281B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A foldable electronic device is provided. The foldable electronic device includes a first housing, a second housing, a third housing, a first folding unit configured to allow the first and second housings to be folded in a first folding manner, a second folding unit configured to allow the second and third housings to be folded in a second folding manner, a flexible display disposed across the first to third housings, and a metal plate disposed to face the flexible display to support the folding operation of the flexible display, and including a first folding area in which a first pattern is disposed and a second folding area in which a second pattern different from the first pattern is disposed.