Flexible OLED Hinge Structure for Dynamic Bending

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing flexible OLED displays are limited to static bending, making them vulnerable to damage and having a low lifespan during dynamic bending.

Innovation Solution

A novel hinge structure is introduced in the supporting frame, comprising a first and second protective component made of shaped-memory alloy and a hinge of high-grade spring steel or elastic polymer, allowing for dynamic bending while protecting the OLED panel from stress and misfolding.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If flexible OLED display is made for dynamic bending, then flexibility and adaptability are improved, but the display becomes vulnerable to damage and has low lifespan

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedynamic bending capabilityVSAvoidlifespan and damage resistance
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a hinge structure with buffer layers and protective components at the bent region of the supporting frame. These components are designed to cushion and absorb uneven forces generated during dynamic bending before they can reach and damage the OLED display panel, thereby enabling dynamic bending capability while protecting against damage and extending lifespan

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The hinge structure acts as an intermediary element between the flexible OLED display panel and the supporting frame. It includes a buffer layer and protective components that mediate the mechanical stresses during bending, isolating the OLED panel from direct exposure to damaging forces while still allowing the display to achieve dynamic bending motion

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If hinge structure is added to supporting frame, then dynamic bending is enabled and durability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedurability during dynamic bendingVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge structure is segmented into distinct functional components: a buffer layer and protective components, with the first protective component having a specific length relationship to the bent region. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function (cushioning, protection, force distribution) while keeping the overall structure manageable and the complexity controlled through clear functional division

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

Enables dynamic bending of flexible OLED displays, enhancing their durability and lifespan by providing a space for bending and reducing the risk of damage from uneven forces.

Implementation Method 1

the first protective component and the second protective component are respectively made of a shaped-memory alloy

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

a hinge structure is disposed at the bent region of the supporting frame... providing a space for bending and reducing the risk of damage from uneven forces

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectStress distribution: Deformation

Data Source

PatentUS10651241B2Flexible OLED display having a hinge structure
Publication Date: 2020.05.12 WUHAN CHINA STAR OPTOELECTRONICS SEMICONDUCTOR DISPLAY TECHNOLOGY CO LTD
  • US10651241B2 patent drawing
  • US10651241B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A flexible organic light emitting diode (OLED) display is provided. The flexible OLED display includes: a flexible OLED display panel, a supporting frame, a buffer layer, wherein a hinge structure is disposed at a bent region of the supporting frame, the hinge structure comprises a first protective component, a hinge, and a second protective component; the hinge is disposed between the first protective component and the second protective component; the second protective component is flush with the first protective component when the flexible OLED display panel is in a planar state.