Staggered Support Member Patterns for Display Bending Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flexible display devices face durability issues when folded or bent due to stress applied to the support member in the folding area, which can affect the longevity and reliability of the device.
Innovation Solution
A support member with staggered outer and inner patterns on opposite surfaces, designed to be folded along a specific axis, featuring recessed grooves and bridges that distribute stress evenly, allowing for stable curvature and reduced width to maintain thickness and enhance bending stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a support member is used to protect the display panel, then the durability and reliability of the display device are improved, but stress concentration in the folding area may cause damage to the support member or display panel
Solution Approach 1:
The support member is divided into multiple patterns (first pattern, second pattern, third pattern) with different depths. The first pattern has a first depth, the second pattern has a second depth greater than the first depth, and the third pattern has a third depth less than the first depth. This segmentation creates stress distribution zones that prevent stress concentration in the folding area while maintaining overall structural strength and durability.
2Ease of manufacture
If the support member structure is simplified, then the manufacturing process is easier, but the ability to distribute stress evenly during folding is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the support member are given different local qualities through varying pattern depths. The first pattern region has a first depth suitable for general support, the second pattern region has a greater second depth for enhanced stress distribution in critical areas, and the third pattern region has a lesser third depth for flexibility. This local quality variation optimizes stress distribution while maintaining manufacturability through a systematic multi-depth pattern design.
3Length of moving object
If the support member width is reduced to maintain thickness, then the portability and flexibility are improved, but the structural integrity during bending is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The support member incorporates curved folding lines that allow smooth bending without sharp angles. The multiple patterns with varying depths create a gradual transition zone along the folding line, enabling the support member to bend while maintaining structural integrity. This curvature approach allows reduced thickness for portability while preserving strength during bending operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A support member for a display device includes: a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other; an outer pattern at the first surface, and extending longer in a first direction; and an inner pattern at the second surface, and extending longer in the first direction. The outer pattern and the inner pattern are staggered with each other.


