Segmented Hinge Joints for Flexible Screen Bending

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing hinges for flexible screens have a complicated structure with various types of parts, making them difficult to process and assemble.

Innovation Solution

A hinge composed of at least two joints with the same structure, where each joint includes a joint body with a rotation structure at one end and a position-limit structure at the other, allowing for sequential connection and relative rotation, with wiring through-holes for communication between adjacent joints.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the hinge is composed of various types of parts to support flexible screen bending, then the supporting function is achieved, but the structure becomes complicated and difficult to process and assemble

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesupporting functionVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge is divided into multiple identical joint modules that can be sequentially connected. Each joint includes a joint body, rotation structure, and position-limit structure. This segmentation allows the complex supporting function to be achieved through repetition of simple, standardized modules rather than using various different types of parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each joint module is designed with universal functionality to perform multiple roles: providing rotation capability, limiting position, supporting the flexible screen, and enabling bending. The rotation structure and position-limit structure are integrated into each joint body, making the module self-sufficient and eliminating the need for additional specialized components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If various types of parts are used in the hinge to achieve bending support, then the functional requirements are met, but the processing and assembly difficulty increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebending support capabilityVSAvoidprocessing and assembly ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge structure is segmented into identical joint modules that can be independently manufactured and then assembled by simple sequential connection. The rotation structures of adjacent joints are socketed together, and position-limit structures engage with each other, creating a straightforward assembly process that reduces manufacturing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

All joint modules use the same structure, materials, and manufacturing processes. This homogeneity allows for standardized production methods, simplified quality control, and easier assembly since workers need to handle and understand only one type of component rather than multiple different parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #33Homogeneity

Data Source

PatentEP3796624B1Hinge and mobile terminal
Publication Date: 2025.04.30 VIVO MOBILE COMM CO LTD
  • EP3796624B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3796624B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3796624B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

The present disclosure provides a hinge and a mobile terminal. The hinge includes at least two joints that are sequentially connected. Each joint includes a joint body, a rotation structure provided at a first end portion of the joint body, and a position-limit structure provided at a second end portion of the joint body. The rotation structures of any adjacent two joints are socketed with each other. The rotation structures of adjacent two joints are capable of rotating relative to each other. The adjacent two joints are opened or closed via relative reciprocating motion between the position-limit structures of the adjacent two joints. When an opening degree of the adjacent two joints reaches a preset value, the position-limit structures of the two adjacent joints stop each other.