Radius Hinge Assembly for Flexible Display Force Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flexible displays in computing devices are susceptible to damage due to their susceptibility to pinching or crimping when transitioning between configurations, and existing hinge mechanisms can concentrate forces that lead to component fatigue and failure.
Innovation Solution
A radius hinge assembly that allows for rotatable securing of device portions with an adjustable length and curvature, distributing forces and protecting the flexible display by maintaining a minimum bend radius and using timed link elements and axis pins to create friction and control hinge stiffness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a traditional single axis hinge is used to connect device portions, then the hinge mechanism is simple in structure, but it concentrates forces on specific portions of the flexible display causing pinching or crimping damage
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly is divided into multiple independent components including first and second hinge assemblies, each with their own axis pins and timed link elements. This segmentation distributes the mechanical forces across multiple connection points rather than concentrating them at a single axis, preventing pinching and crimping of the flexible display while maintaining structural simplicity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
Timed link elements serve as intermediary components between the hinge assemblies and the flexible display. These link elements maintain a consistent radius of curvature and distribute forces evenly across the flexible display surface during transitions between configurations, preventing direct concentration of forces that would cause damage
2Manufacturing precision
If the hinge assembly length is fixed, then the manufacturing precision is easier to maintain, but it imparts excessive forces on the flexible display during configuration transitions
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly incorporates adjustable length capability through timed link elements that can be positioned at different locations along the hinge assembly. This dynamic adjustment allows the hinge to adapt its length during configuration transitions, reducing imparted forces on the flexible display while maintaining precise dimensional control through the timed linkage mechanism
3Ease of operation
If the hinge allows free rotation without friction control, then the ease of operation is improved, but it cannot maintain minimum bend radius to protect the flexible display
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly controls friction through adjustable parameters including the number and positioning of timed link elements, axis pin locations, and friction element configuration. By adjusting these parameters, the hinge maintains optimal friction levels that ensure minimum bend radius is preserved during rotation, protecting the flexible display while allowing smooth operation through controlled resistance rather than free rotation
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 radius hinge assembly effectively reduces stress forces on the flexible display during configuration changes, protecting it from damage and ensuring durability by distributing forces and maintaining a minimum bend radius, thus enhancing the device's operational lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
using timed link elements and axis pins to create friction and control hinge stiffness
Data Source
AI summary
The description relates to devices, such as computing devices that have hinged portions. One example can include a first portion and a second portion and a flexible display secured to the first and second portions. This example can also include a hinge assembly rotatably securing the first and second portions. The hinge assembly can be fixedly secured to the second portion and movably secured to the first portion such that a length of the hinge assembly can change when the first portion and second portion are rotated relative to one another.