Segmented Hinge Structure for Smooth Flexible Display Folding

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing flexible display devices face challenges in smoothly transitioning between folding and unfolding states, which can lead to unnecessary load on the display and inconvenience to users.

Innovation Solution

A flexible display device with a hinge unit formed of multiple hinge segments, allowing for a foldable structure that supports the display unit in various sizes and prevents unnecessary load by ensuring smooth movement during state changes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of moving object

If a flexible display is arranged on two bodies through a folding structure, then a large screen may be implemented, but an unnecessary load may be applied to the flexible display during state transitions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescreen areaVSAvoidunnecessary load on flexible display
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of moving objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge unit is divided into multiple hinge segments (first hinge segment, second hinge segment, third hinge segment) that can independently rotate relative to each other. This segmentation allows the hinge unit to adapt its shape during folding and unfolding operations, preventing unnecessary load on the flexible display while enabling large screen implementation across two bodies.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The hinge unit is designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing it to change its configuration from a linear arrangement to a folded arrangement with multiple rotation points. This dynamic adaptation ensures smooth movement during state transitions and prevents excessive stress on the flexible display unit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Volume of moving object

If a folding structure is used to connect two bodies, then the device can be folded into a smaller size for portability, but the flexible display unit may experience reverse folding or smooth movement issues

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice volumeVSAvoidsmooth movement of flexible display unit
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge unit is divided into multiple hinge segments (first hinge segment, second hinge segment, third hinge segment) that can independently rotate relative to each other. This segmentation allows the hinge unit to adapt its shape during folding and unfolding operations, preventing unnecessary load on the flexible display while enabling large screen implementation across two bodies.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The hinge unit's multi-segment design provides mechanical feedback that guides the folding and unfolding process. The sequential rotation of hinge segments ensures controlled movement and prevents reverse folding, maintaining smooth operation during volume reduction for portability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 device achieves smooth movement and supports the flexible display unit effectively across different states, preventing damage during folding and unfolding operations.

Implementation Method 1

a hinge unit installed at one side of the first body, configured to connect the first body and the second body to each other for relative rotation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical hinge: Hinge

Implementation Method 2

a flexible display unit formed to be folded and unfolded, and arranged on a front surface of the first body and the second body

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFlexibility:

Data Source

PatentEP3918593B1Flexible display device
Publication Date: 2025.05.14 LG ELECTRONICS INC
  • EP3918593B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3918593B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~3b
  • EP3918593B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

A flexible display device including a first body; a second body; a flexible display unit arranged on a front surface of the first body and the second body; and a hinge unit connecting the first body and the second body to each other such that the first body and the second body can be folded and unfolded with respect to each other. Further, the hinge unit includes a plurality of hinge segments such that in a folding state of the flexible display unit, the second body is arranged to cover a rear surface of the first body as an interval between the hinge segments is increased, and in an unfolded state of the flexible display unit, the first body and the second body are arranged in parallel with the interval between the hinge segments being decreased.