Sliding Hinge Assembly for Gap-Free Curved Display Modules

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing display apparatuses face challenges in creating a curved screen by connecting multiple flat display modules without generating gaps between them, and in varying the curvature of the screen by adjusting the angle between modules.

Innovation Solution

A hinge assembly that includes rotatable brackets with moving blocks and a spacing adjustment mechanism, allowing for sliding movement of the display modules to adjust their spacing and angle, enabling the formation of both concave and convex shapes without gaps.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If display modules are connected with fixed spacing, then the structure is simple, but gaps are generated when angle is changed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveangle adjustmentVSAvoidgap between modules
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge assembly incorporates a moving block that can dynamically adjust its position along the bracket through sliding movement. This dynamic mechanism allows the spacing between display modules to change automatically as the angle between modules is adjusted, eliminating gaps while maintaining structural integrity. The moving block transitions from a static to a dynamic component, enabling real-time adaptation to angular changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Shape

If moving block is added to adjust spacing, then gaps are eliminated, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegap eliminationVSAvoidhinge assembly structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge assembly merges multiple functions into a single integrated structure. The bracket, moving block, and spacing adjustment mechanism are combined into one cohesive assembly that simultaneously provides angular adjustment and spacing control. This merging reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall installation process, offsetting the added complexity with functional integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The hinge assembly serves multiple functions: it enables angular adjustment between display modules, controls spacing to eliminate gaps, and provides structural support. The moving block acts as a multi-functional element that can slide to adjust spacing while also serving as a mounting point for the display module. This universality reduces the need for additional specialized components.

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

3Adaptability or versatility

If brackets are rotatable for angle adjustment, then screen curvature is achievable, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecurved screen formationVSAvoidspacing adjustment accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The moving block is designed to self-adjust its position along the bracket as the angle between display modules changes. The sliding mechanism automatically compensates for spacing variations without requiring external intervention or complex control systems. This self-service feature reduces the burden on manufacturing precision by allowing the mechanism to adapt to minor variations through its own operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Enables flexible adjustment of the angle between display modules, eliminating gaps and allowing for seamless curvature changes, thereby improving the installation flexibility and image quality of the display apparatus.

Implementation Method 1

The hinge assembly may further include a screw screwed to the moving block, and the moving block may slidingly move when the screw rotates.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectScrew mechanism: Screw

Data Source

PatentUS11935440B2Display apparatus and hinge assembly of display module
Publication Date: 2024.03.19 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US11935440B2 patent drawing
  • US11935440B2 patent drawing
  • US11935440B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a display apparatus including a plurality of display modules, and a hinge assembly connecting the plurality of display modules, wherein the hinge assembly comprises a pair of brackets rotatably coupled to each other to adjust an angle between the plurality of display modules, a moving block is mounted on each of the pair of brackets to be coupled to the display module, and the moving block is configured to slidingly move with respect to the bracket to adjust a spacing between the plurality of display modules. With this structure, the angle between the plurality of display modules may be variously varied according to an installation environment.