Segmented Supports for Foldable Display Flexibility and Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable display devices face challenges in achieving lightweight characteristics while maintaining visibility and structural integrity, particularly due to the integration of circuit boards and support structures.
Innovation Solution
A display device design incorporating a foldable area with a flexible display panel, a first support member with a stretchable portion, a second support member with spaced plates, and a third support member made of a different metal material, along with a circuit board contacting the third support member, enhances lightweight characteristics and improves visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If a circuit board and support structures are integrated into the foldable display device, then structural integrity and visibility are maintained, but the device weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple discrete support members (first support member, second support member, third support member) positioned at different locations under the display panel. Each support member provides localized structural reinforcement, allowing the circuit board to be supported without requiring a heavy continuous support structure throughout the entire device.
Solution Approach 2:
Support members are strategically positioned at specific locations where structural reinforcement is most needed - particularly under the circuit board and at key structural points. This localized support approach provides necessary structural integrity only where required, rather than uniformly throughout the entire device, thereby minimizing overall weight.
2Stability of the object's composition
If support members are positioned to provide structural support, then device stability is improved, but the foldable area flexibility is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into multiple discrete members rather than a continuous rigid structure. This segmentation allows the support members to be positioned to provide stability at key points while leaving the foldable areas between them free to bend and flex, thus maintaining both stability and flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
Support members are positioned in the third dimension (under the display panel at specific depths) rather than directly in the plane of the foldable area. This vertical positioning allows the support members to provide structural stability without interfering with the horizontal folding motion of the display panel.
Data Source
AI summary
A display device includes: a display panel including a foldable area having flexibility; a first support member disposed under the display panel and including a stretchable portion overlapping the foldable area; a second support member disposed under the first support member and including a first support plate and a second support plate spaced apart from each other; a third support member disposed under the first support member and including a material different from a material of the second support member; and a circuit board contacting a part of the display panel and one surface of the third support member, respectively.