Multi-Link Hinge Structure for Flexible Screen Folding Radius
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable electronic devices have limited configurations due to simple hinge mechanisms, restricting the flexibility and folding forms of flexible screens, which can lead to damage from small folds.
Innovation Solution
A hinge mechanism with a supporting and rotating mechanism, including multiple interconnecting elements, allows for varied included angles and increased degrees of freedom, enabling multiple folding forms and preventing damage by accommodating larger bending radii.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a simple hinge mechanism is used, then the device structure is simple, but the folding configurations are limited and small folds can damage the screen
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism is divided into multiple independent supporting elements (first supporting element, second supporting element, third supporting element, fourth supporting element) that can move relative to each other. Each element provides a degree of freedom, enabling the flexible display panel to achieve multiple folding configurations including parallel folding, reverse parallel folding, and angled folding, thereby resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and folding versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The supporting elements are designed with rotatable connections allowing dynamic movement between different positions and angles. The mechanism transitions from a static simple hinge to a dynamic multi-degree-of-freedom structure, enabling the display panel to adapt to various folding states while protecting against damage from improper small folds.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a simple hinge mechanism is used, then the manufacturing is easier, but the folding forms are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The complex hinge mechanism is segmented into standardized supporting elements that can be manufactured independently and then assembled. Each supporting element follows a similar structural pattern with rotatable connections, which simplifies the manufacturing process while enabling diverse folding forms when assembled together.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple supporting elements are added to enable varied folding, then the folding flexibility increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism is divided into modular supporting elements that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation allows for standardized production of each component, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while achieving the desired folding flexibility through the combination of multiple elements.
Solution Approach 2:
Each supporting element serves multiple functions: providing structural support, enabling rotation at specific axes, and contributing to the overall folding configuration. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, thereby controlling device complexity while achieving folding flexibility.
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 proposed hinge mechanism enhances the flexibility and durability of foldable display panels by allowing multiple folding forms and preventing small folds from damaging the screen, improving the overall folding condition.
Implementation Method 1
the first supporting element is rotatably connected to one side of the fixed bracket along a first shaft, and the third supporting element is rotatably connected to the other side of the fixed bracket along a third shaft
Implementation Method 2
the second supporting element is rotatably connected to one side of the first supporting element away from the fixed bracket along a second shaft, and the fourth supporting element is rotatably connected to one side of the third supporting element away from the fixed bracket along a fourth shaft
Implementation Method 3
The rotating mechanism includes a first connecting element and a second connecting element, wherein the first supporting element is rotatably connected to one side of the fixed bracket along a first shaft
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge, a display panel, and an electronic device are disclosed. The hinge includes a fixed bracket and a supporting mechanism, wherein the supporting mechanism includes a first supporting element rotatably connected to the fixed bracket along a first shaft, a second supporting element rotatably connected to the first supporting element along a second shaft, a third supporting element rotatably connected to the fixed bracket along a third shaft, and a fourth supporting element rotatably connected to the third supporting element along a fourth shaft.