Rotatable Connector Assembly for Foldable Display Bend Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable terminal devices with flexible displays face damage due to stacking folds at the bending portion when in a folded state, affecting portability and usability.
Innovation Solution
A rotatable connector assembly with a base and connector members featuring first and second hinges that form a recess in the folded state, creating an accommodating space for the bending portion of the flexible display, preventing stacking folds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the flexible display is folded to a compact state for portability, then the device size is reduced for easier carrying, but the bending portion of the flexible display is prone to squeezing and stacking folds that cause damage
Solution Approach 1:
The connector members are designed to nest within each other when folded, with the second connector member inserted into the first connector member. This nesting arrangement creates a protective cavity that accommodates the bending portion of the flexible display, preventing stacking folds and damage while maintaining a compact folded size.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge structure and connector member design provide pre-established protective space and structural support at the bending portion of the flexible display before folding occurs. This beforehand cushioning prevents the display from suffering stacking fold damage during the folding operation.
2Area of moving object
If the connector members are designed to extend away from each other in the unfolded state, then the flexible display can achieve a large display area, but the connector assembly becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connector members are designed with multi-functionality: they serve as structural support elements, provide the hinge rotation mechanism, create the protective cavity for the bent display, and enable the nesting arrangement. This universal design reduces the need for separate protective structures, thereby managing complexity while achieving large display area when unfolded.
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 rotatable connector assembly effectively protects the flexible display from damage by forming a recess in the folded state, enhancing the device's portability and usability while maintaining a compact form.
Implementation Method 1
each of the connector members includes a first hinge and a second hinge... the first hinge and the second hinge of each of the connector members are bent to form a recess at a hinged position
Data Source
AI summary
A rotatable connector assembly includes a base and two connector members respectively connected to two sides of the base, where each of the connector members includes a first hinge and a second hinge, and both sides of the base are provided with a first sliding slot; one end of the first hinge is slidably connected to the first sliding slot and rotates with respect to the base, and the other end of the first hinge is hinged to one end of the second hinge; the rotatable connector assembly has an unfolded state and a folded state.